Frequently asked questions about headache. (Headache) –

Our specialists answer some questions sent by our followers about headaches.

Why does my head always hurt when I eat sweets?

It is common for migraine patients to associate the intake of sweets with headache attacks, however, so far there is no scientific explanation for this. It has even been suggested that the consumption of sweets is caused by the anxiety to eat and is more a premonitory symptom of migraine than the trigger of the crisis.

What kind of pain should I have to go to the emergency room?

Sudden and very intense headaches or those associated with other neurological symptoms (double vision, blurred vision, difficulty speaking or moving any part of the body, instability when walking, etc.), should ALWAYS be evaluated in the emergency room.
Any headache that is very severe and does not improve with common pain relievers may also be managed by an emergency room.

In children, when should we consult? To what extent is this normal and can it be managed at home?

Every child with a headache should be evaluated by a specialist (neuropaediatrics), not necessarily in an emergency department.

When the pain is intermittent and stabbing, what can be the cause?

It is necessary to have more details to be able to identify the cause of the pain, for example, duration, location, associated symptoms, among others. In the same way, it is necessary to carry out a physical examination.

Can oral contraceptives, as a side effect, cause migraine?

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The brain of migraine sufferers is sensitive to different factors, which translates into a predisposition to have headaches. Hormonal changes and therefore the use of oral contraceptives has been associated with an increase in migraine attacks.

It is worth mentioning that oral contraceptives are infrequently associated with cerebral vein thrombosis, which also causes headaches, therefore it is always important to consult a neurologist.

How can I tell if my headache is a migraine?

Migraine is typically a throbbing headache that affects one side of the head and is associated with symptoms such as vomiting, discomfort with light or sound, among others. It is important to consult the doctor to obtain detailed information on the symptoms, perform an adequate neurological examination and rule out other causes.

Why is the headache stronger during the menstrual period?

Hormonal changes, especially the drop in estrogen levels that occur during menstruation seem to be the cause of the increase in migraine attacks.

Why does the migraine reappear when I consume sweets or liquor?

Although many patients associate the consumption of liquor or sweets with migraine attacks, to date there is no scientific evidence to confirm this relationship and, therefore, no reliable biological explanation has been described.

Does migraine have a cure?

No, but there are multiple treatment options that can help control the disease and improve quality of life.