Frequent headaches are part of a long list of thyroid dysfunction symptoms. Headaches coexist with thyroid symptoms and comorbid conditions. Comorbid conditions can make the diagnosis and treatment process more difficult. It intensifies the symptoms of other conditions and makes it difficult to get rid of headaches. Knowing which condition you have may be the first step in understanding how to get rid of it. Find out what type of a headache you may be experiencing here.
7 Different and Frequent Headaches You May Be Experiencing
1. Tension Headaches
One of the most experienced types of headaches associated with thyroid disorders is a tension headache. It is being caused by muscle contractions and results in a little bit of pain to moderate pain. Tension-type headaches have two kinds:
- episodic tension headaches: can last from 30 minutes to a week.
- chronic tension headaches
Symptoms:
- Dull aching head pain
- A sensation of pressure across your forehead
- Tenderness on your scalp, neck, and shoulder muscles
Treatments: Get more sleep and find ways to lower your stress levels. Such as heat therapy and massaging your neck area. As a last resort, you can ask your doctor to prescribe pain relievers and antidepressants.
2. Migraines
Migraines are another form of common headaches. A migraine is usually the result of contractions of blood vessels in your brain. However, the exact cause of migraine headaches is still unknown.
Symptoms:
- Pounding pain that lasts from hours to days
- Loss of appetite
- Altered vision
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Sensitivity to noise
Treatments: Retreat to a dark, quiet room and attempt to relax. Moreover, women can try hormone therapy and painkillers.
3. Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches are the most painful types of primary headaches. It is the least common headache you may experience. This type of a headache tends to come in groups and occur multiples times in a day. Not to mention, it can last for days or months.
Symptoms: Intense pain with a burning or piercing sensation located in the eye region.
Treatments: Inhale pure oxygen. Also, try taking melatonin and local anesthetics.
4. Sinus Headaches
Sinus headaches are secondary headaches caused by the inflammation of your sinuses. Sinuses are the air-filled cavities around your nose, eyes, and cheeks.
Symptoms: Dull, deep throbbing pain in the front of your head and face that worsens with every head movement you make.
Treatments: Try painkillers, decongestants, humidifier or vaporizer, salt water, and nasal steroid spray.
5. Acute Headaches
Acute headaches have various kinds. Such as thunderclap headaches, chronic headaches, and tension headaches. Stress and medical problems, like a thyroid condition, can cause these headaches.
Symptoms: A sudden onset of pain or discomfort and gets worse just as fast.
Treatments: Lower your stress levels or try over-the-counter medications such as painkillers or triptans.
6. Chronic Headaches
Chronic headaches are incessant and continuous daily headaches. Due to their persistent nature, these chronic daily headaches are the most disabling and painful.
Symptoms: A headache which constantly reoccurs or never goes away at all.
Treatments: You can try antidepressants but the treatment of an underlying disease may be more effective.
7. Hormone Headaches
Hormone headaches are due to a fluctuation of hormone levels usually experienced by women. However, thyroid patients can also experience hormonal imbalances resulting in hormone headaches. Also, hormone headaches can also evolve and cause migraines.
Symptoms: Headaches that occur immediately before or during menstruation.
Treatments: If you know your period is regular, you can take standard painkillers in advance to prevent these headaches. As for women with an irregular period, consult your doctor for daily preventative medicine for the hormone imbalance and headache.
Download, save, or share this infographic for reference: 7 Frequent Headaches Hypothyroidism Can Cause.
The headaches may be symptoms of an undiagnosed thyroid condition. Together with frequent headaches, your thyroid condition can worsen without medical attention. If you’re exhibiting thyroid symptoms and experiencing frequent headaches, have a thyroid checkup immediately. Afterwards, ask your physician for a more optimized thyroid treatment to address your headaches as well.
Have you experienced frequent headaches? Share your experience with us in the comments below!
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Editor’s note – This post was originally published on August 22, 2017, and has been updated for quality and relevancy.
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