Identify your pain & don't let headaches bog you down

Novocur Pain Management Clinics is a sponsor of Smart Family

Should my recurring headache be a concern?

Novocur Pain Management Clinics offer a full spectrum of pain management treatments, including traditional as well as steroid alternative options. Board Certified Anesthesiologists and Pain Management Doctors consult and treat patients on-site in our licensed treatment centers, which accelerate patient access to pain relieving care. Novocur has two Valley locations to serve those patients who are in chronic pain (longer than three months), and have already tried conservative forms of treatment, which have not been able to provide adequate pain relief.

Headaches are one of the most common medical complaints -- nearly everyone gets a headache at some point. Over 45 million Americans (about one in six) suffer chronic headaches each year. Headaches, therefore, have a big economic impact; when you have a throbbing pain in your head, it's hard to work.

Fortunately, most headaches do not indicate a serious underlying condition. That is little consolation, however, for those that suffer from frequent or severe headaches. Tension, migraine and cluster headaches can dramatically impact the quality of daily life for those who suffer from these pain syndromes. Although missing days from work due to headaches can be a financial burden, it is the loss of quality time with a spouse, kids, friends or the loss in ability to be involved with the things one loves the most that exacts the highest burden upon headache sufferers.

Question: What are the most common types of chronic headaches?

1. Tension – band like pain around head, often accompanied by neck stiffness, tension or pain. Often triggered by stress.
2. Migraine – usually one sided pain, often triggered by sensitivities to foods, chemicals or environmental allergens. Two types, “Classic Migraine” often preceded by a prodrome or aura, often visual disturbances or funny smells, which lets the sufferer know a headache is about to onset. The “Common Migraine” is not accompanied by preceding premonition. Migraine pain is often accompanied by sensitivity to light and sound, which requires the sufferer to seclude themselves in quiet, dark room.
3. Cluster – usually affects the area around the eye or face. Pain often accompanied by eye redness, eye tearing and nasal discharge. Occurs in groups (1-3 per day, often every day for 2 weeks to 3 months), often around the same time of year (usually fall/spring), usually affects younger people 30 and under, males are 2-3 times more likely to suffer. Cluster headaches are usually more painful than a migraine. These headaches are more common in people who smoke or drink alcohol (these also act as triggers during a cluster period)
4. Sinus Headaches – caused by a swelling of sinus tissue from infection or allergic sinusitis. The pain is worse with head movement or bending forward.
5. Hormone Headaches – often a migraine or tension headache that is associated with decreasing estrogen levels. Estrogen levels usually reach their lowest levels just prior to menses. Can also be due to elevated or fluctuating estrogen levels in menopausal or post-menopausal women who are on hormone replacement therapy.

Question: What are the danger signs with Headaches?

A new or different type of headache in those 55+ years old can be a warning sign. A headache accompanied by neurological symptoms, such as blind spots in vision, paralysis or confusion should be evaluated by your doctor immediately. Also, a headache accompanied by fever or stiff neck. Lastly, a headache that develops after a head trauma should always be evaluated on an emergency basis.

Question: I’ve already tried physical therapy, massage, chiropractic adjustments and medications but I still can’t get my headaches under control. What other treatment is available?

• Seek the care of Pain Management Physician, such as the doctors at Novocur Pain Management Clinics. There are a variety of treatments still available. These headache treatments are often aimed at breaking the headache cycle and blocking the nerves that innervate the head structures where your pain is located. You will be surprised at how quick, effective and painless these options can be.

Novocur
Pain Solutions. Life Solutions.

Two Valley Locations
480.786.4644
www.Novocur.com

Novocur Pain Management Clinics is a sponsor of Smart Family