Headaches Tips

Homeopathy as a branch of medicine has evolved drastically over the years.  Unlike others, homeopathy's greatest advantage is its complete lack of side-effects and its ability to treat a myriad of diseases and ailments. One of the most common causes of concern for most people is a nagging perpetual head ache. Over the years, homeopathy has developed various medicines to confront and treat different kinds of headaches. Some of the different kinds of headaches and homeopathic remedies associated with them are-

1.Throbbing and excruciating pain in the head - In case you are suffering from constant throbbing (or excruciating) pain with the agony occurring mostly in the front and right side of the head, Belladona is the most trusted medicine you must go for. Belladona works wonders in treating shooting pains that mostly aggravate through the course of the day. One of the most important advantages of Belladona is its ability to relieve you of the pain for a long time, with very less chance of any recurrence. 

2.Headache as a result of hangover or problems in digestion - Consumption of excessive alcohol or problems in digestion and constipation also contribute to a throbbing headache located mostly over one of the eyes. In such a scenario, the homeopathic medicine called Nux Vomica is extremely effective. This treats the headache emerging from the host of issues and also alleviates the lingering sensation of nausea and giddiness that are often accompanied with the pain.

3.Severe headaches that result in vomiting - Sometimes the pain may be located on the top of the head with its severity increasing with the advancement of the day. In case you are suffering from such a headache, chances are vomiting may follow as a result of the intensity. In such a situation, a medicine called Sanguinaria should be administered.  The medicine works best if you lie down after having it. 

4.Headache emerging from partial blindness - Headaches and vision are inextricably related. Therefore, in case you are suffering from partial blindness or any other visual disorder, chances are that a severe head ache will soon follow suit.  In such a situation, you could also suffer from nausea and tendencies of vomiting. The homeopathic medicine called Iris is extremely beneficial in reducing the intensity of such headaches.
 

Yacon Syrup!

Headaches are a big headache. While it is okay to have a one-off pain in the head, a constant nagging headache is not good. It is, however, one of the most common medical problems and can affect a person’s social life, school/office work, and overall quality of life. The pain in the head is caused by a problem in the nerve supply, blood supply, muscles, or other tissues in the brain/head region.

There are various reasons for a headache and the most common ones are listed below along with some measures that you make take to cure a headache.

1. Sinus headaches: Sinusitis of any of the 4 sinuses in the head region is accompanied by a headache. The exact location of the headache can depend on the sinus affected, but there is also fever, heaviness in the head, shortness of breath and congestion. During an attack, the patient is usually given antibiotics to get rid of the infection along with decongestants to clear up the airway.
2. Migraines: Usually running in families, migraines are characteristic in being one-sided, throbbing pain that is associated with sensitivity to light and noise, nausea and vomiting. These can last from 4 to 72 hours and can be preceded by an aura. People with migraines, after some trial and error, identify the best medication that works for them and use it when the aura sets in. They should also avoid light and sound if they are sensitive.
3. Tension headaches: There is a feeling of tension or pressure around the head in the area of the head and neck. The discomfort is not as disabling as migraines and there are no associated symptoms. Regular pain killers like aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen are usually effective.
4. Cluster headaches: These headaches occur in cycles or clusters and hence the name. Often one-sided, the patient will also have congestion, watery eyes, and runny nose on the same side as the pain. Regular pain medications are again the most commonly used mode of management.
5. Rebound headaches: When a person uses too many painkillers to manage aches and pains, they can rebound and cause a headache. This can be a withdrawal symptom as the dose of the medicine level drops and subsides over a period of time.

There are multiple other forms of headaches caused by spinal disorders, caffeine intake, menstrual cycles, chronic cough, hangovers, tumours of the head/face/neck, encephalitis, meningitis, post-traumatic episodes, temporal arteritis, etc.

While most headaches are self-limiting, if there are associated symptoms like increased frequency, blurring of vision, seizures, stiff neck, fainting, coordination issues, then further investigation is immediately warranted. These could be indicative of a more serious condition like a stroke or internal haemorrhage and need immediate attention.

 

Head and Neck Cancer, which is better known as throat cancer, refers to a state when different malignant tumours tend to develop around the throat, neck, sinus, mouth as well as in larynx. During this situation, there is uncontrolled growth of cell in the throat. It is quite a rare kind of cancer compared to other types. The rate of survival mainly depends on the stage of cancer and the area that gets affected.

Before looking at the tips regarding the modes of treatment and how to prevent the occurrence of head and neck cancer or throat cancer, let us briefly talk about the symptoms and causes of this problem:

Symptoms

There are different types of signs and symptoms related to this kind of cancer. They include:

• Cough
• Voice change, which leads to hoarseness or being unable to speak clearly
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Pain the ear
• A lump or tumour that does not get healed
• A sore throat
• Loss of weight

Causes

There are a number of risk factors, which result in the occurrence of head and neck cancer. The causes or risk factors include:

• Smoking or chewing tobacco
• Consumption of alcohol
• Exposure to sunlight
• Human Papillomavirus infection
• Radiation to one’s head and neck
• Exposure to wood dust
• Consumption of some preservatives
• Bad oral hygiene

Tips On How To Treat As Well As Prevent The Occurrence Of This Cancer

Now, having discussed the signs and symptoms as well as the causes that result in people suffering from Head and Neck Cancer, it is important to immediately consult an oncologist as when one comes across those symptoms. An oncologist is well-equipped to take responsibility for giving systemic therapy. Let us take a look at some of the tips to tackle the Head and Neck Cancer:

• All those patients who are suffering from Head and Neck Cancer would receive systemic therapy from Oncologists.
• Systemic therapies are medications, which go throughout the body.
• People should avoid going for radiation or surgery as both these would only target a particular area.
• For head and neck cancer, one must always go for systemic therapies that include the chemotherapy and the targeted therapy.
• Affected people can also undergo treatment with either one medication or with a combined effect of medicines, known as a regimen.
• Oncologists make a choice of the exact recipe of the medicines, which would ideally suit the person’s cancer and follow accordingly during the treatment.
• Ideal chemotherapy medication, which almost all the regimens would have is known as Cisplatin.
• An oncologist would suggest people stay away from the consumption of alcohol and also from smoking tobacco.
• They also suggest people be particular about their oral hygiene.

We all know about the heartbeat, which is produced by the opening and closing of the valves in the heart, which in turn controls our blood flow. There is a regular pattern to this beat, and when, due to various reasons, it becomes irregular, it is known as arrhythmia. Atrial fibrillation, known shortly as AFib, is one of the common types of arrhythmia.

Why AFib: The heart has an electrical impulse system, which controls the opening/closing of its valves. Due to various changes, be it lifestyle, dietary, or regular wear and tear, this electrical system is affected and so the valves do not function properly. This leads to altered rhythm, and when it happens on the right side of the heart, in the valves between the two atria, it is known as atrial fibrillation.

Signs and Symptoms: It is not something which shows up as soon as the onset happens. It is a gradual condition, and many people with AFib may go for months with no symptoms. There could be general symptoms like fatigue and headaches. Gradually, more symptoms like heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, occasional chest pain, or fainting set in. It is usually when workup for some other disease is being done.

Monitoring the pulse or heartbeat is one of the best ways to keep a check on the condition.

Types: There are different forms of it – paroxysmal, persistent, and permanent. In the first one, there are brief bursts of AFib lasting less than 7 days. With gradual progression, symptoms are more frequent and last longer, converting into persistent AFib, which lasts longer than 7 days. If the condition is longstanding and the doctor (as well as the patient) have decided not to treat it, it is permanent AFib.

Risk Factors: The chances of developing AFib increase with family history, age, obesity, smoking, hyperthyroidism, chronic lung diseases, and sleep apnea.

Living with AFib: It is a longstanding condition, and the following precautions are necessary, which are generally heart-healthy.

1. Quit Smoking: In addition to the multiple benefits of quitting, managing AFib is one.

2. Diet Changes: Change to a heart-healthy diet with whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, increased fish oils, reduced fat, reduced salt and sugar etc.

3. Work It Out: Get into an exercise regimen. Discuss with your doctor to identify and agree on the type and level of exercise. This helps manage weight and stress, both essential for controlling AFib.

4. Manage Alcohol Consumption: Avoid excess consumption of alcoholic beverages. Avoid them completely if they trigger symptoms.

If you have the risk factors for AFib, implementing these changes earlier than the onset of symptoms can help delay progress and reduce severity of the symptoms.

Headaches are a very common condition. We all have experienced mild headaches at some point in our lives. Such a condition may result from disorders of the eyes, neck, or due to dental problems. Sometimes, stress, dehydration, or an underlying condition could be causing frequent headaches. Pain medications and lifestyle changes are typically recommended for mild headaches. However, for some people, headaches may be chronic or recurrent – the pain could be so severe that even OTC medications and pills may not be effective.

Types of Chronic Headaches

Here are some examples of chronic headache that might be interfering with your routine activities –

Cluster Headaches – these refer to intense headaches, typically confined to just one side of the head, that reoccur in cyclic patterns over several weeks or months

Migraine – Migraines are characterized by severe headaches, usually on the side of the head. The pain may be accompanied by blurred vision, nausea, and sensitivity to sound, smells, and light.

Occipital Neuralgia – this refers to extreme headache resulting from inflammation or damage to the occipital nerves that run through your scalp from the spinal cord.

Chronic Headache Symptoms

Depending on the type of headache, intensity and frequency of the symptoms may vary. Symptoms that indicate a more serious, chronic headache include any of the following –

Headaches starting early in the morning Pain that deteriorates due to strain – for example, a sneeze or a cough

Vomiting

Sudden onset of headache

Pain that becomes persistent or severe

Personality changes

Changes in vision

Seizures

Weakness in the legs or arms

The above symptoms may resemble a serious medical problem – possibly a neurological disorder. Consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Neurosurgery for Headaches

If medications fail to relieve throbbing, debilitating headache, then you might have to go for a surgery. Neurosurgery uses the following techniques to treat intense, recurrent headaches –

Deep Brain Stimulation – this involves implanting wires or electrodes deep inside the brain to correct irregular brain activity

Peripheral Nerve Stimulation – in this procedure, the surgeon directly implants electrodes on nerves or beneath the skin in the pain region

Nerve Decompression Surgery – the surgery is performed to alleviate pain and relieve pressure caused by impingement. The lamina – a portion of the bone over the nerve root – and disc from under the nerve root is surgically removed to provide the nerve more space.

Apart from surgery, neurosurgery also involves procedures like Botox and Nerve Blocks. These are targeted towards patients who experience chronic headaches daily.

Surgery for headaches has high success rates and usually does not cause severe complications. With new and improved technology, surgical procedures have become safe and highly effective. Nevertheless, you should discuss your medical history and symptoms thoroughly with a specialist prior to the surgery.

Homeopathy as a branch of medicine has evolved drastically over the years.  Unlike others, homeopathy's greatest advantage is its complete lack of side-effects and its ability to treat a myriad of diseases and ailments. One of the most common causes of concern for most people is a nagging perpetual headache. Over the years, homeopathy has developed various medicines to confront and treat different kinds of headaches. Some of the different kinds of headaches and homeopathic remedies associated with them are-

1. Throbbing and excruciating pain in the head
In case you are suffering from constant throbbing (or excruciating) pain with the agony occurring mostly in the front and right side of the head, Belladona is the most trusted medicine you must go for. Belladona works wonders in treating shooting pains that mostly aggravate through the course of the day. One of the most important advantages of Belladona is its ability to relieve you of the pain for a long time, with very less chance of any recurrence. 

2. Headache as a result of hangover or problems in digestion
Consumption of excessive alcohol or problems in digestion and constipation also contribute to a throbbing headache located mostly over one of the eyes. In such a scenario, the homeopathic medicine called Nux Vomica is extremely effective. This treats the headache emerging from the host of issues and also alleviates the lingering sensation of nausea and giddiness that are often accompanied by the pain.

3. Severe headaches that result in vomiting
Sometimes the pain may be located on the top of the head with its severity increasing with the advancement of the day. In case you are suffering from such a headache, chances are vomiting may follow as a result of the intensity. In such a situation, a medicine called Sanguinaria should be administered.  The medicine works best if you lie down after having it. 

4. Headache emerging from partial blindness
Headaches and vision are inextricably related. Therefore, in case you are suffering from partial blindness or any other visual disorder, chances are that a severe headache will soon follow suit.  In such a situation, you could also suffer from nausea and tendencies of vomiting. The homeopathic medicine called Iris is extremely beneficial in reducing the intensity of such headaches.
 

Stroke is a condition known to all for its deadly impact. Even if the affected person survives, the after-effects can be immensely debilitating right from affecting movement to speech. Being informed, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. 

Here are the common signs of stroke that you should be aware of:

1. Numbing of arms and legs: Many people wake up and find that their arms and legs are numb and they tend to assume that it is due to compression of the nerve. But the actual reality is that the flow of blood through the arteries running up to the spine is reduced, and it has led to weakness or numbnesson either side of the body.
2. Double vision and blurriness: Vision problems can also be a strong indicator of stroke even though most people think it is due to long hours of work or aging. When you see two images of the same object, it doesn’t have to mean that you are reading too much. It could mean that the blood vessel in charge of supplying oxygen to the eyes has been disrupted or blocked.
3. Slurred speech: Some medicines, particular painkillers can cause speech issues. But this is not the case always; if it is not a side effect that you typically experience after taking painkillers, you should consult a healthcare expert without any delay. 
4. Confusion and trouble over thinking and articulating: When you find yourself in a state where you cannot recall the right word to explain the right thing, you may rest assured that it is an issue stemming from the stroke. If you find yourself to struggle thinking or finding a word very commonly, then you are heading for big trouble.
5. Balance problems: Some people have balance issues, and they think it is due to the dose of alcohol, but experts say it is crucial to identify whether this assumption is correct. You will never have delayed balance problems, and therefore, you cannot blame a drink that you had last day. So, if you have balance issues without any identifiable reason, it is advisable to call a doctor.
6. A headache that becomes intolerable at times: Headaches can be a sign of a migraine but in case you are not prone to this ailment, then the debilitating headache could indicate a stroke. Migraine headaches can also mean stroke since both of them have similar signs and symptoms.
7. Fatigue that won’t let you stay upright: If you are not doing any physically strenuous job but still feel tired most of the time, it could be a warning sign of stroke. If it continues for over a week, it is recommended that you consult an expert immediately.

Equipped with this knowledge, stay aware and pay attention to the indications your body gives to take care of yourself.

The term sinus is usually used in reference to the cavities near the nose. If these cavities become inflamed or swollen, the condition is known as sinusitis. If this condition lasts for more than 12 weeks, it is categorized as chronic sinusitis. This leads to a buildup of mucus that can make breathing difficult. Home remedies may help relieve some of the symptoms associated with this condition but in most cases, medication is required.

Symptoms of Chronic Sinusitis - 
Sinusitis usually affects adults but in some cases, children may be affected as well. Symptoms of this condition can be categorized as primary symptoms and secondary symptoms. In order for it to be diagnosed with chronic sinusitis, at least 2 of the primary symptoms should be present. These include:

• Thick discharge from the nose or discharge that flows down the back of the throat. This discharge may be yellowish or greenish in colour.
• Difficulty breathing through the nose because of nasal congestion.
• Swelling, tenderness and pain around the nose, eyes, cheeks and forehead.
• Loss of smell and taste in the case of adults.
• A persistent cough in the case of children.

The secondary symptoms of this condition include:

• Pain in the ear
• Pain in the teeth and upper jaw
• A cough that is worse at night
• A sore throat
• Persistent bad breath
• Tiredness
• Nausea
• Irritability
• Frequent headaches

Cause of Chronic Sinusitis -
Chronic sinusitis may be caused by a number of factors. The most common amongst these are:

1. Nasal polyps: This refers to the growth of tissue in the nasal passages that block the air path and allow mucus to build up.
2. Deviated nasal septum: The septum is a wall that separates both nostrils. In some cases, this wall may deviate so as to block the sinus passages.
3. Respiratory tract infections: Cold is the most common infection responsible for chronic sinusitis. Such infections can thicken the sinus membranes and block the passageway for mucus to drain out. This infection may be caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi.
4. Allergies: Allergies such as hay fever can block the sinus passages and lead to chronic sinusitis. Asthma also causes chronic sinusitis. a reaction to aspirin may also cause a blockage in the sinus passages.
5. Other medical conditions: Medical conditions such as HIV, gastroesophageal reflux and cystic fibrosis can also cause chronic sinusitis. Patients suffering from diseases related to the immune system have a high risk of suffering from chronic sinusitis.

Top  Homeopathic remedies for sinus infections:

1. Silicea: One of the Best Homeopathic remedies for Sinus Infections with headache. Silicea happens to be one of the finest remedies in homeopathic for sinus disease. The headache caused by sinus fundamentally on right side happens to be treated best with Silicea.
2. Belladonna: Top Homeopathic solution for sinus headache with smothered discharge: Normal Homeopathic prescription Belladona is one of the perfect homeopathic remedies for sinus diseases when sinus headache is because of smothered discharge. Belladonna is exceptionally useful when a Sinusitis patient grumbles of a brutal headache.
3. Kali Bichrome: Best Homeopathic solution for Sinusitis with discharge dropping once again into throat.

Sinusitis can be effectively cured with the help of the homeopathic constitutional treatment, contact a homeopath for effective treatment.

Headaches arise due to various reasons. Stress, tension, migraine, overwork and several medical conditions may cause headaches of different types. Such headaches are also called chronic headaches, and many cases of headaches are recurrent in nature. This indicates that the headaches might reappear or reoccur.

Headaches are quite frustrating and affect your entire health and performance. Recurrent headaches are even more troublesome as they strike back when you almost thought they were gone. There are several ways to deal with or control recurrent headaches. They include the following:

A. Medical treatment: Medicines can be used to treat the underlying cause of a headache and if these fail, medicines to cure the headache are used.

The different preventive medicines for recurrent headaches are:

1. Antidepressants: Tricyclic antidepressants by the likes of nortriptyline can be prescribed for treating recurrent headaches. These medications help in curing any kind of depression, anxiety and disturbances in sleep, which usually lead to recurrent headaches. Antidepressants like the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor or SSRI and fluoxetine are also used.
2. Beta blockers: Beta blockers, commonly used to treat hypertension, also prevent migraine-related headaches. They include atenolol, metoprolol and propranolol.
3. Anti-seizure medicines: Several anti-seizure medicines help in the prevention of migraine and also cure daily recurrent headaches. They include topiramate, divalproex sodium and gabapentin.
4. NSAIDs: Prescribed nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like naproxen sodium also help in reducing headaches, which appear daily. NSAIDs are used in cases of a severe headache.
5. Botulinum toxin: Onabotulinum toxin A or Botox injections can be used to get relief from recurrent headaches and are ideal for people whose daily medications are not effective enough.

B. Alternative medicine procedures
Other than medications, alternative therapies to get relief from concurrent headaches can be utilized. They include:

1. Acupuncture: This ancient procedure involves the use of thin needles, which are inserted into certain areas of the skin at defined points. Acupuncture reduces the frequency and intensity of headaches.
2. Massage therapy: Massage therapy reduces stress, gives relief to pain and provides relaxation. Massaging of the tight muscles at the back of the head provides relief.
3. Herbs and nutrients: Several organic herbs help in preventing migraine headaches and reduce the intensity of headaches. They include butterbur and feverfew. Vitamin and mineral supplements can be taken to reduce headaches and prevent them from reoccurring. Coenzyme Q10 supplements, magnesium sulfate supplements can reduce the frequency of several headaches as well.
4. Investigational approach: A surgical implant, which is a battery operated electrode, can be placed around the occipital nerve. The electrode implant sends energy pulses to the nerve, and headache is eased.

Recurrent headaches can be controlled in various ways, which include medicines and several alternative procedures. You should consult a doctor before you start using some method.