Individuals battling with frequent headaches must seek professional help. Consult Dr Raveesh Sunkara, a renowned neurosurgeon in Hyderabad. He has extensive experience diagnosing and treating various neurological conditions, including headaches.
Headaches are a common ailment that affects a significant portion of the population. While occasional headaches can be a minor inconvenience, frequent or severe headaches can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.
People experiencing regular headaches may have chronic headaches. It encompasses various subtypes rather than a single headache type.
Recognizing the complexity of these conditions and their effects on daily life, Dr Raveesh Sunkara, one of the best neurosurgeon in Hyderabad, is committed to providing adequate relief and improving the overall well-being of his patients.
Understanding Chronic Headaches
In the context of headaches, the term chronic refers to the frequency and duration of their occurrence. Due to their consistency, chronic headaches are one of the most debilitating headache syndromes.
Chronic headaches can last over three months and occur 15 days or more per month. Initial aggressive treatment and consistent, long-term care may minimize headaches.
Types and Causes of Chronic Headaches
Headaches that last more than four hours are known as long-term headaches. Migraines, tension-type headaches, and cluster headaches are some examples of primary headaches. Occasional headaches are frequent but usually do not require medical treatment.
It is essential to differentiate these headaches from non-primary headaches.
Inflammation or other problems with the blood vessels in and around the brain, stroke, infections(meningitis) and any conditions that affect intracranial pressure are all possible causes of non-primary chronic headaches.
Most of these non-primary headaches need medical attention. They can be completely cured if the right treatment is started.
When to Consult the Doctor?
One should seek immediate medical assistance in the following situations:
- Experience sudden and severe headaches.
- Two or more headaches per week.
- Need pain relievers most days. Require more than the suggested dose of OTC pain relievers to relieve the headaches.
- The headache pattern changes, the headache intensifies, or the headaches are incapacitating.
- Headaches accompanied by fever, weakness, numbness, stiff neck, confusion, seizure, double vision or difficulty speaking.
- Headaches following a concussion or head injury may indicate bleeding inside the head.
- Additionally, long-standing or slow-growing tumours inside the head can cause headaches for an extended period before showing other symptoms.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Headaches
Neurological headaches can have various causes, ranging from tension headaches and migraines to underlying medical conditions.
Dr. Raveesh Sunkara, a proficient neurosurgeon doctor in Hyderabad, employs a holistic approach to understanding the root cause of each patient’s headaches, considering physical and psychological factors.
By conducting a thorough examination and evaluating the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle, Dr Sunkara develops personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs.
Once a diagnosis is made, Dr. Raveesh Sunkara educates his patients about their condition, explaining the underlying causes and available treatment options. Moreover, Dr. Sunkara strongly believes in empowering his patients with knowledge, allowing them to participate actively in their healthcare decisions.
Treatment for headaches may vary depending on the specific diagnosis and severity of the condition.
If necessary, Dr. Raveesh Sunkara implements a multidimensional approach that may include lifestyle modifications, medication management, interventional procedures, and surgical interventions.
Throughout the treatment process, Dr. Sunkara maintains open lines of communication with his patients, ensuring their concerns are addressed and their progress is closely monitored.
Lifestyle Modifications to Manage Chronic Headaches
Below are a few lifestyle adjustments that can be helpful if a person suffers from chronic headaches:
Staying away from headache-inducing substances.
Keeping a headache journal will help determine what causes the headaches so one can avoid them. The patient should also include information on when the headache began, what they were doing, and how long it lasted for each headache.
Avoiding excessive pharmaceutical use.
Taking headache treatments more than twice a week, including over-the-counter medications, can make the headaches worse and more frequent. The patient must consult the doctor about weaning off the medicine, as inappropriate dosing can result in serious adverse effects.
Taking enough rest.
Lack of adequate rest is one of the most important causes of headaches. An adult needs seven to eight hours of sleep per night.
Eating meals on time.
An individual must eat healthful meals at regular intervals throughout the day. They should avoid foods or beverages that cause headaches, such as those containing caffeine.
Maintaining a healthy weight.
Regular aerobic physical activity can help the patient feel better physically and mentally and reduce stress. The patient should choose activities they enjoy, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, with the doctor’s permission.
Reducing stress levels.
Chronic headaches are frequently triggered by stress. Patients must organize themselves. They should reduce the number of things on their to-do list. Making preparations ahead of time and maintaining an optimistic attitude. Trying stress-relieving exercises like yoga, tai chi, or meditation can help.
Reducing caffeine consumption.
Caffeine is included in some headache treatments because it can help with pain relief. But it can also intensify headaches.
Takeaway
If a person experiences frequent headaches that impact their daily life, it is essential not to ignore them. Consulting with a specialist like Dr Raveesh Sunkara can provide the necessary guidance and support to alleviate the pain and improve overall well-being.
Dr Sunkara can help patients relieve their headaches and regain control over life with his expertise in managing neurological conditions and compassionate approach to patient care.
