Most people have headaches from time to time and usually require no medical attention; however a daily/almost daily headache is definitely a cause for worry. Consult a Psychiatrist if:
- You usually have two or more headaches a week
- You take a pain reliever for your headaches on most days
- You need more than just one tablet of pain killer to relieve your headaches
- Your headache pattern changes or your headaches worsen
- Your headaches are disabling and you are unable to get on with daily life.
Both Migraine as well as Tension Type headache are extremely common and can run a chronic disabling course.
Tension-Type Headache may have a presentation with:
- Pain that affects both sides of the head
- Pain that feels pressing or tightening
- Tenderness to touch on the head
Migraines tend to have the following features:
- Affect one side or both sides of your head
- Have a pulsating, throbbing sensation
- Cause moderate to severe pain
- Are aggravated by routine physical activity
And they cause at least one of the following:
- Nausea, vomiting or both
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Irritability/ anxiety/sadness/mood swings