Päänsärvyt

Päänsärvyt, known in English as headaches, are a common ailment experienced by people of all ages. They manifest as pain in the head and can vary significantly in intensity, location, and duration. Headaches are broadly categorized into primary and secondary types. Primary headaches are not caused by an underlying medical condition and include tension headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches. Tension headaches are the most prevalent, often described as a dull, aching pain around the forehead or back of the head. Migraines are typically more severe, characterized by throbbing pain, often on one side of the head, and can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Cluster headaches are less common but extremely painful, occurring in cyclical patterns or clusters, with intense pain usually around one eye.

Secondary headaches, on the other hand, are symptoms of another medical issue. These can range from sinus infections and allergies to more serious conditions like meningitis or brain tumors. Factors contributing to headaches can include stress, lack of sleep, dehydration, eye strain, certain foods, alcohol consumption, and hormonal changes. While most headaches are not serious and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, persistent, severe, or unusually patterned headaches warrant medical attention to rule out underlying causes and receive appropriate treatment. Diagnosis often involves a review of medical history, a physical examination, and sometimes imaging tests. Treatment strategies depend on the type and cause of the headache and may include lifestyle adjustments, medication, or therapies like physiotherapy.