What are headaches?
A headache is a mild, moderate, or severe pain in your head that can occur for a variety of reasons. It might feel like dull, aching pain or severe, sharp pain on one or both sides of your head. Lake Grove ENT specialists can find the root cause of headache pain and relieve it.
What are the risk factors for headaches?
Some of the many risk factors associated with headaches include:
- Hormone changes in women
- Family history of headaches
- Some foods and drinks
- Stress
- Dehydration
- Intense physical activity
- Certain medications
- Sleeping changes
- Allergies
- Sinus problems
- Ear infections
- Nasal congestion
- Strep throat
- Head injuries
- Tumors
Living a healthy lifestyle is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of developing headaches, though they can still occur.
How does my doctor diagnose the cause of headaches?
To diagnose the cause of headaches and develop a treatment plan, your Lake Grove ENT doctor reviews your symptoms and medical history. They complete a physical exam to evaluate your eyes, ears, nose, throat, and breathing. Your provider may also recommend allergy testing, blood tests, CT scans, MRIs, or other imaging procedures.
What are common headache treatments?
If you or your child experiences chronic or severe headaches, your doctor might recommend one of the following:
Lifestyle changes
Healthy lifestyle changes that can reduce the incidence of developing headache pain include relaxation training, developing good sleeping and eating habits, getting regular exercise, and drinking a lot of water throughout the day.
Medications
Taking medications can eliminate headache pain. Your doctor might prescribe medications to reduce allergy symptoms, treat ear or sinus infections, or reduce nasal congestion.
Allergy shots
If you have allergies associated with congestion and headaches, allergy shots can offer relief and help you breathe easier.
Surgery
If your headaches stem from chronic ear infections or sinus problems, your Lake Grove ENT specialist might recommend a minor surgical procedure to drain fluid or clear your nasal passages. Examples include balloon sinuplasty and ear tube insertion. Your specialist offers in-office procedures in some cases.
If you struggle with severe or frequent headache pain, you don’t have to live with it. Schedule an appointment with Lake Grove ENT by phone or online today for relief.
