Most adults have had a headache at one time in their life. In fact, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), up to three-quarters of adults in the world have had a headache in the last year. What you may not know is that there are 150 different kinds of headaches. Headaches are either primary or secondary. Headaches that are secondary mean they are caused by another condition, such as hormonal imbalances, a head injury, dehydration, or caffeine withdrawal.

Unfortunately, a chiropractor cannot treat secondary headaches. Chiropractors can, however, effectively treat these three primary types of headaches.

1. Migraine Headaches

This type of headaches is quite debilitating for many people. Even though migraine headaches are common, scientists have yet to agree on what causes them. Some say migraines are connected to a disorder of the nervous system. Others say migraines occur due to irregularities in the blood vessels. In most cases, migraine headaches are triggered by something specific.

These triggers include lack of sleep and overstimulation. For some, certain foods and chemicals have been known to trigger migraines. Common symptoms associated with migraines include feeling lightheaded, sensitivity to light, and nausea. Some may also experience visual disturbances before the migraine occurs.

2. Tension Headaches

Stress is a common trigger for tension headaches. This type of headache is often characterized by a feeling of having a band tightly wrapped around the forehead. Other symptoms for tension headaches include:

• Dull or aching head pain
• Tenderness in the face, head, or neck
• Pressure behind the eyes

Tension headaches can produce such intense pain that they are often mistaken for migraines.

3. Cluster Headaches

Cluster headaches are the most painful type of headache. They are usually felt on one side of the head. This type of headache can also be felt in or around the eye. Cluster headaches can occur on a frequent basis followed by a period when no headache is experienced.  This type of headache usually comes on without any warning.

It's unknown what causes cluster headaches. Some medical experts believe they are caused when certain chemicals are released into the hypothalamus. Symptoms associated with cluster headaches include congestion, swollen eyelids, and a feeling of restlessness.

Headaches usually signify that the body is stressed or there is an imbalance in the nervous system. Regular chiropractic adjustments help alleviate stress and restore balance to the spine. Tension removal and a realignment of the spine can help decrease the frequencies of migraines, tension headaches, and cluster headaches. For more information, reach out to a company like Midtown Chiropractic & Rehabilitation today.