When Your Headache Isn't "Normal"

My patients have been asking about their headaches and what could be causing them. Chiropractors in Portland can help diagnose headaches of our patients, create a working diagnosis or refer to the appropriate doctor/facility if your headache is more severe. It is important for people to know what the symptoms of more serious headaches are, so I thought I’d write a blog about it today.

Most headaches are benign and stem from conditions like:

• Acute infections (including the flu, sinus infections and upper respiratory infections)
• Eye strain from things like computer work or having to look at something for a long time
• Stress
• Lack of sleep
• Caffeine withdrawal
• Dehydration
• Certain kinds of medications (including some birth control pills, blood pressure medications and some SSRIs)

However, some headaches are more serious and stem from conditions like:

• Head trauma
• Hypertensive headaches
• Tumors
• Glaucoma
• Giant Cell Arteritis
• Meningitis

For serious headaches in Portland, it is important to let your doctor know things like:

• The onset of your headache
• The progression in its severity
• If you have a fever or a stiff neck
• If it was sudden and severe
• If you (or people you know) are experiencing any confusion, memory issues or changes in personality.
• It is also important to see if there are any neurological signs as well, like movement changes, increased muscle tone or loss of muscle tone

Chiropractors in Portland play a significant role in helping diagnose headaches and guiding you to the right kind of doctor if your headache is meeting more serious criteria. It is always important to share all your symptoms with your doctor or medical provider.