Overview

Migraine is a neurological syndrome characterized by altered bodily experiences, painful headaches, and nausea. It is a common condition which affects women more frequently than it does men.

The typical migraine headache is one-sided and pulsating, lasting 4 to 72 hours. Accompanying complaints are nausea and vomiting, and a heightened sensitivity to bright lights (photophobia) and noise (hyperacusis). Approximately one third of people who experience migraine get a preceding aura, in which a patient may sense a strange light or unpleasant smell. Patients often describe triggers they feel precipitate an episode of migraine, such as certain foods and beverages (like chocolate or alcohol), stress or menstruation. In some migraine types there are typical features but the headache remains absent, and in children abdominal pain may be a prominent feature.

Although the exact cause of migraine remains unknown, the most widespread theory is that it is a disorder of the serotonergic control system. Genetic factors may also contribute. Studies on twins show that genes have a 60 to 65% influence on the development of migraine. Fluctuating hormone levels show a relation to migraine in several ways: three quarters of adult migraine patients are female while migraine affects approximately equal numbers of boys and girls before puberty,[citation needed] and migraine is known to disappear during pregnancy in a substantial number of sufferers.

The treatment of migraine begins with simple painkillers for headache and anti-emetics for nausea, and avoidance of triggers if present. Specific anti-migraine drugs can be used to treat migraine. If the condition is severe and frequent enough, preventative drugs might be considered.

The word migraine is French in origin and comes from the Greek hemicrania, as does the Old English term megrim. Literally, hemicrania means "half (the) head".

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Headaches Home Remedies

A headache affect the entire body. Even a very simple task as chatting becomes very difficult. Given below are some natural home remedies to relieve from the headaches.

Some Home Remedy For Headache

Most common cause for the headache is stress. Taking a break and relaxing would definitely help in reducing the stress. Usually when people are stressed, overworked or emotionally upset their eating habits change vastly and one thing they neglect most is drinking water, which in turn leads to dehydration and horrible headaches.

So, in order to stay away from the headache, always drink lots of water as much as you can. As this would avoid your body from getting dehydrated and electrolytes in water such as the Gatorade or PowerAde further more also helps in quicker hydration of the body .

Regular exercise is another best way to avoid the headache pain. And the best suited exercise for this is the one which is less stressful. A more relaxing type such as yoga or Pilates would be a great remedy. Furthermore, exercises increase blood circulation and help reduce headaches in the process.

A good long relaxing bath also works wonders in getting relief from stress related headache situations. Also adding some scented candles with the essential oils like lavender would add to the great relaxation and soothe the senses. Also use to make a point to catch up with the good sound sleep in a quite environment whenever possible. However, the treatment is not the very best for those who suffer from the sensitivities to smell.
If sinus infections causes the headache then inhale hot water vapors for approximately 5-10 minutes or to apply hot and very cold compresses over affected area.

Helpful Tips

The effect of these home remedies for headaches however depends on the types of headache and also on present state of health. Natural remedies such as acupuncture are also traditional pain relievers. Incase the situation worsens or persists consult a doctor.

Autor: steven marks

Read more on Headaches Home Remedies and Homeopathy Treatment for Migraine


Added: September 29, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Headaches-Home-Remedies~

Monday, September 28, 2009

Cefaly provides a technologically advanced therapy for drug free relief


Cefaly electro therapy device


Cefaly is a medical device that utilizes established TENS therapy principles in a novel design. This device is worn on the forehead like a pair of spectacles to prevent and treat chronic and recurrent headaches. It helps to relieve pain and suffering caused by migraines, tension and cluster headaches as well as stress related headaches.


Cefaly is a patented medical device. It is supported by numerous clinical studies and safety tests, in addition to an ever growing customer base. Cefaly was clinically studied over a 5-year period and as a result 5 thousand treatments stand to validate Cefaly's clinical effectiveness.



In short, Cefaly is:


  • Totally safe

  • Rapidly effective

  • Highly effective

  • Easy to use



This drug-free solution complies with all European legislation and is made in France in an ISO factory. It is also suitable for children above the age of 8 years, but must always be used under adult supervision.


Cefaly for migraine headache relief


Cefaly is a medical device that provides pain relief to people suffering from migraines and cluster/tension headaches, in addition to people suffering from trigeminal neuralgia and frontal sinusitis.


During a migraine attack, a self-adhesive electrode is placed on the forehead. The Cefaly device is worn like a pair of spectacles, and once in position it connects to the electrode. As soon as the button is pressed, the treatment is delivered automatically.



The unit sends electrical impulses through an electrode patch placed in between the eyebrows to the traumatized trigeminal nerves at the front of the face. Cefaly delivers cranial analgesic electrotherapy. Ultra-precise electronic impulses are delivered to the main branch of the trigeminal nerve to prevent and treat pain in the head area. Cefaly benefits a person on three levels:


  • Based on TENS technology, Cefaly works on blocking the flow of pain at the entrance of the spinal cord

  • It increases endorphins (natural painkillers) in the central nervous system

  • It relaxes and de-stresses a person



Each course of treatment is a 20 minute session. Clinical tests on the same give the following results:


  • Tension headaches prevention - 93% said that frequency of headaches had been significantly reduced

  • Tension headaches treatment - 86% of patients said that the pain had significantly reduced or found complete relief

  • Frontal sinusitis treatment - 100% significant improvement

  • Cluster headache treatment - 67% say pain intensity was greatly reduced and 37% said length of attack was reduced significantly.

  • Migraine prevention - 47% said that frequency of migraines had been greatly reduced

  • Migraine treatment - Patients said that pain intensity was reduced by 52%



Cefaly stress relief treatment


Cefaly will potentially change your life for the better. It has the capacity to inhibit pain, prevent headache, calm anxiety and sooth stress. It is an efficient electrotherapy system that is delivered via an extremely comfortable, ergonomic and simple-to-use device.



Moreover, as a course of prevention, Cefaly increases the production of endorphins and raises your tolerance levels of pain. This results in less frequent attacks. Furthermore, it produces general relaxation and a strong sense of well-being.


Cefaly can either be used as a preventative measure to prevent stress or as a treatment when stress occurs.


Cefaly can also be used on a regular basis, with at least 3 sessions a week but no more than 3 sessions a day. This will help diminish a state of chronic stress and even improve a person"s long-term wellbeing in general.


What are the benefits of using Cefaly?


Cefaly is a state-of-the-art device that helps you overcome the pain and distress of frequent migraines and headaches. It's a completely natural headache solution. Moreover, it is completely safe to use and has no side effects. Its benefits include:


  • Reducing the frequency of headaches

  • Preventing and lessening the severity of migraine attacks

  • Significantly lessening the intensity of pain during a migraine attack

  • Melting away migraine and headache pain

  • Soothing and de-stressing you into a calm and relaxed state

  • Its a far safer option than being dependent on painkillers for years




Autor: MarkBevan

Webmaster associated with migraine headache related site headclinic.co.uk. This site provides various information on qu-chi band, cefaly and foot spa. Resources are available on site headclinic.co.uk


Added: September 28, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Cefaly-provides-a-techn~

Sunday, September 27, 2009

The Triptans, Migraine and Sinus Headache

It has been claimed that the effectiveness of the triptans in someone experiencing facial pain does not exclude a diagnosis of "sinus" headache because it has been shown that the "triptans" do relieve the pain of sinusitis. Whilst this is true (because abnormal information from a diseased, infected sinus will sensitise the brainstem and the "triptans" desensitise the brainstem), the relief from pain will not continue once the effect of the "triptans" has worn off if the facial pain were coming from an infectious condition - the triptans are not an antibiotic.

But why take a "triptan" when an examination of the neck will confirm in most cases, in my clinical experience of over 13000 hours, a neck disorder as the sensitising source in the headache and migraine process?

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses, can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment. However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.


Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.


Added: September 27, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/The-Triptans--Migraine-~

Friday, September 25, 2009

Greater Occipital Nerve Blocks Relieve Migraine and Cluster Headache

Another example of migraine headache being relieved within 30 seconds after injection of the greater occipital nerve.

Need I say more ..... just part of the overwhelming evidence for cervicogenic involvement in migraine .... but there is more!

Blocking the greater occipital nerve in 14 cluster headache patients substantially decreased their symptoms with the researchers suggesting that this procedure is a significant treatment option i.e. eliminating information from structures of the upper neck leads to relief from cluster headache .....

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses, can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment. However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Dean Watson

Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia

Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.


Added: September 25, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Greater-Occipital-Nerve~

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Comprehend the impact of headache and their treatment on your day-to-day life


What are headaches, there types and where do they occur?


The most common and frequent of ailments, headaches are never termed as 'disease', but may be indicative of certain other underlying problems. However, headaches are fairly common and can be a cause for concern in individuals as it tends to upset a persons daily routine.



The most common types of headaches include tension headache (muscular contraction headache), migraines (vascular headaches) and cluster headache. Cluster headache are generally extremely painful and may occur several times a day or not occur at all for days. In some cases these headaches may require a visit to a medical provider.



There are some rare types of headaches also which deserve a mention here for the simple fact that they affect a sizeable number of individuals from time to time. These headaches include:


  • Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (headache with visual symptoms due to raised intracranial pressure

  • Ictal headache

  • Brain freeze (also known as:ice cream headache)

  • Thunderclap headache

  • Vascular headache

  • Toxic headache

  • Coital cephalalgia (sex headache)

  • Hemicrania continua

  • Rebound headache (medication overuse headache, abbreviated MOH)

  • Spinal headache (post-dural puncture headaches) after lumbar puncture or related procedure that will lower the intracranial pressure

  • Hangover headache (caused by heavy alcohol consumption)



Headaches often result from traction to or irritation of the meninges and blood vessels. Pain, during a headache, transpires in the brain tissues, muscles, nerves and blood vessels around the scalp, face, and neck. Lacking in nociceptors, the brain itself is insensitive to pain. However, the dura mater (the membrane surrounding the brain and the spinal cord), is resplendent with nociceptors. Stimulation of any kind to the dural nociceptors produces headaches.



Tension headaches and their symptoms


Tension headaches are a type of headache that results from contraction of the head and neck muscles. The most common type of headache, it accounts for almost 70% of all headaches that occur. Tension headaches can occur in either sex and at any age; however, it is most common in adults and adolescents.


This type of headache particularly occurs in isolated incidents but may become chronic in some people. Possible causes include:


  • Stress

  • Fatigue

  • Poor posture

  • Eye strain

  • Tobacco and alcohol use

  • Performing an activity with the head held up in one position for a long time

  • Sleeping in a cold room

  • Sleeping in an abnormal position

  • Overexerting oneself

  • Clenching or grinding the teeth

  • Hormonal changes before and after menstrual periods(in women only)



During tension headaches, pain is felt in the generalised area of the head and neck. In addition, the pain may be situated in the back of the head and neck - feeling like an 'extremely tight band". The pain is sometimes accompanied by muscle tightness in the back of the neck also. Nonetheless, tension headache do not last long if treated well in time.



Headache - effective treatment


Treatment for a simple headache is as a rule symptomatic. Over-the-counter painkillers are generally known to work effectively but headaches like migraines may require specific treatment. Headaches in general and migraines in particular may result from specific allergic triggers like stress or unambiguous foods. If known, it is best to avoid these allergic triggers in order to remain ailment free.


If an individual is suffering from chronic headaches, a 'headache' diary could prove to be quite useful as it would help the doctor figure out what kind of treatment is most appropriate for your diagnosis. The easiest way to do this would be to write the dates of headaches on a calendar.


Moreover, maintaining a diary requires making a note of when the pain started and how long it lasted. You must also note down other additional factors pertaining to food and drink that may have triggered your condition, other medicines taken, daily activities, and weather conditions. In the case of women, maintaining detailed information about their periods would also help a lot.


While every individual will require an exclusive form of treatment, over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol (Panadol), aspirin (Aspro clear) and ibuprofen (Nurofen) are seen to work effectively in most people with non-chronic headaches; lifestyle changes may also help. But, prescription medicines may be more helpful in people with chronic migraines.



Autor: MarkBevan

Webmaster associated with migraine headache related site. This site provides various information on migraine, headache and stress relief treatment. Resources are available on site headclinic.co.uk


Added: September 24, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Comprehend-the-impact-o~

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Diagnosing Cervicogenic Headache is Easy

I mentioned recently that blocking the greater occipital nerve and eliminating head pain is key sign of cervicogenic or neck headache and that this has been demonstrated repeatedly in migraine sufferers.

This procedure (injecting nerves) however is not necessary to diagnose cervicogenic headache which is just as well because after all it is invasive, not readily available and relatively expensive.

The ability to temporarily reproduce familiar head pain when examining joints of the upper neck is recognised by traditional medicine as one of the most important indicators of cervicogenic headache (actually, I have to disagree with this, reproduction alone is not enough - there needs to be lessening of the head pain as the examination technique is sustained - more of that later).

It is irresponsible to recommend treatment of the neck for headache or migraine when it is not the cause and therefore it is crucial that reproduction and lessening of head pain occurs during the examination.

The examination approach I have developed on the basis of 21000 hours experience is unparalleled - in recent research familiar head pain was reproduced in 100% of tension headache sufferers and 94% of migraineurs .... now I could be cynical and say that 100% had tension headache and cervicogenic headache and 94% migraine sufferers had cervicogenic headache as well.

Cheers

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses, can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment. However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.


Added: September 22, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Diagnosing-Cervicogenic~

Monday, September 21, 2009

Menstrual Tension-type Headache?



Now we have menstrual tension-type headache described. When will it all end - the last thing we need now is another headache type!

The authors interviewed 165 women with menstrual related headache and found that the characteristics of tension-type headache were evident in 21.

Isn"t this what some authorities are saying - that all headache and migraine arises from the same disorder? Menstrual tension-type headache is just a less severe expression of menstrual migraine.

Don"t get me wrong, this is my clinical experience also. I see women whose menstrual headaches vary in severity from one cycle to the next, and some women whose headaches are less severe than those in other women, so Yes, it can present as what is considered a tension-type headache (but its not tension!).

What is needed is to determine the source of the sensitisation - and basic neuro anatomy and research tells us that neck disorders have the potential to sensitise the brainstem.

Cheers

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses, can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment. However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.


Added: September 21, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Menstrual-Tension-type-~

Saturday, September 19, 2009

The Triptans and Menstrual Migraine



It"s interesting to read that the "triptans" are also effective in managing menstrual migraine, suggesting that the underlying cause for migraine, tension headache and menstrual migraine is similar, that is, a sensitised brainstem.

One underestimated source of sensitisation are neck disorders .... tired of playing around with your hormonal levels? Perhaps it is your neck that is sensitising your brainstem - a skilled examination will either confirm or eliminate this as a possibility.

Cheers

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses, can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment. However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.


Added: September 20, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/The--Triptans--and-Mens~

Friday, September 18, 2009

Understand the intricacies of the disease and win the war against migraines


What is Migraine?


Migraines are a severe, painful headache that gradually develops from a mild headache to a throbbing momentum. It is often preceded or accompanied by sensory upheavals like flashes of light, blind spots, tingling in the arms and legs, nausea, vomiting and increased sensitivity to light and sound. The piercing pain that migraines bring on can sometimes last for a few hours or even days.



Migraine generally result from the combined affects of the enlargement of the blood vessels and the release of chemicals from nerve fibers. During the headache, the temporal artery enlarges causing the release of chemicals. These combined effects not only cause further enlargement of the artery but also cause pain and inflammation.



This further aggravates feelings of nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. Moreover, this typical response adds to a delay in emptying of the stomach into the small intestines, taking its toll on food absorption, decreasing blood circulation which leads to cold hands and feet, and an increased sensitivity to light and sound.


Who are affected by migraine?


Anybody can suffer from migraines, including children, adolescents, or grown - up men and women. However, studies have revealed that this condition is nearly four times more evident in women.


It has also been found that many people who suffer with migraine headaches also have a family history of migraines. However, this is an assumption as no exact hereditary mechanisms have yet been detected. The assumption is based on suffers having a family history of migraines. It has been assumed that people who get migraines have an inherited abnormality wherein the blood vessels are not consistently regulated.


Migraine symptoms in children


Most adults who still suffer from migraine headache probably got their first headache as a child. Some research on this issue reveals that almost 5% of the people suffer from at least one migraine attack before the age of 15; in fact children as young as five years are known to suffer from migraine headaches. This means that migraines in children seem to be much more common than earlier believed.



Children, more often than not, do react differently to migraine - their symptoms and ways of coping may look quite unfamiliar to an adult. Some of the more noticeable symptoms include a change in temperament (unusual temper or sadness), nausea, and headache (especially on one side of the head) which can either be on one side of the head or on both sides. Children are more likely to have a headache on both sides of the head. Some may even experience an aura and be sensitive to light. In addition, it has been noted that children who get car sick may also be predisposed to migraine.


Nutritional supplement for the relief of migraine


Trying nutritional supplements for headaches is a good idea. Neither do these supplements cost a fortune nor do they cause any unpleasant side-effects, like prescription drugs. On the contrary, these supplements may actually do some real good. However, the only issue with alternative treatments is that in most cases immediate migraine relief is almost impossible; however, in the long-term this goal can be achieved.



Therefore, taking supplements of vitamins B6 and B12, as well as folic acid, magnesium, coenzyme Q10 and riboflavin on a daily basis may reduce the frequency, severity and disability of migraines. Daily vitamin supplements, in fact, were found to produce a two-fold reduction in migraine disability.



Autor: MarkBevan

Webmaster associate with migraine headache related site. This site provides various information on migraine treatment and migraine symptoms. Resources are available on site headclinic.co.uk


Added: September 19, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Understand-the-intricac~

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Exertional Headache, Migraine and the Neck

"Benign" (or harmless) Exertional Headache is defined as headache caused by exertion such as coughing, sneezing, bending, heavy lifting, running (how is this different to headache triggered by exercise?) or when straining at stool.

It is important that if your headache history is less than 3 months and is triggered or aggravated by these activities that you consult you doctor.

These activities create similar effects on the body as do the Valsalva manoeuvers.

Recent research1 found a wide range of symptoms in Exertional Headache, some with migrainous symptoms, and the authors suggested that the "triptans" might be useful. As usual there is a lot of discussion as to the actual mechanism of Exertional Headache and indeed Exercise Induced Headache, but the causes remain unknown - why?

The Valsalva manoeuver is used (and has been for years) to identify problems or injury in the nerves of the cervical spine. Upon the exertion of pressure, pain may be felt, and may indicate increased pressure on the C2-3 intervertebral disc or other part of a cervicogenic (neck) disorder.

Clearly increased headache or headache or migraine triggered by exertion or exercise is likely to be caused by a neck disorder.

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses, can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment. However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Dean Watson

Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia

Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.


Added: September 17, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Exertional-Headache--Mi~

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Avoiding Chocolate to Prevent Migraine is Not Necessary

Avoiding Chocolate to Prevent Migraine is Not Necessary

Avoiding chocolate to prevent migraine is not necessary - it isn"t about the chocolate!

The thought of living without chocolate is unbearable but I know that for many of you, the experience is not worth it!

However, many of my patients are now eating chocolate, in fact this is what I ask them to do after 3-4 treatments - and you can imagine their (and mine!) delight when they do so without headache or migraine.

But why is it that I can eat chocolate without headache - I"m sure that chocolate has the same effect on me as it does on someone else who ends up with a headache. For example phenylethylamine (PEA) is a chemical in chocolate that causes blood vessels to expand and contract - this probably happens for everyone, but not everyone gets headache or migraine. Some might say that the chocolate sensitises their system, whilst some authorities suggest that their system is already sensitised before the chocolate came along.

I suspect that just as in migraine and tension headache sufferers, the brainstems of those whose headache or migraines are triggered by chocolate, are already sensitised. The normal response of the blood vessels to PEA is to expand, but the pain interpreting centres in the brain understands this (normal) increased activity to be much more than what it is and pain results.

What"s causing the sensitisation? It is easy to confirm a neck disorder because temporary reproduction and lessening of head pain occurs when examining the joints of the upper neck - it is important to confirm the source of sensitisation ...

... then you can enjoy the benefits of eating (good quality and dark) chocolate:

a natural mood enhancer

a stress reliever

a memory enhancer

improves your levels of serotonin (which will desensitise your brainstem).

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses, can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment. However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Dean Watson

Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia



Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.


Added: September 15, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Avoiding-Chocolate-to-P~

Monday, September 14, 2009

Headaches Caused By Stress

Stress is a typical cause of headaches. If you be afflicted by migraines, you have a tendency to be easily influenced by intense events. During stressful events, certain chemicals in your cerebral cortex are released to counter a situation ( known as "flight or fight" reply ). The release of these chemicals strokes the blood carrying vessels and that causes migraine.

Stress is generally the cause of tension-type headaches too. Tension-type headaches are of two types: episodic and chronic. You get an episodic tension-type headache because of an isolated stressful situation or a build-up of stress. If you get stressed out daily, such as from a high-pressured job, it can lead to a chronic tension-type headache.

Headache causing stress is usually prompted by factors which exist in the environment or other internal reasons. The most common sources of stress include family, social relationship, mates, work and college. Specific stress triggers include :

issues at home
The birth of a child.
Getting back to school
examination stress
New job and new office surroundings
Meeting stern cut offs
Work deadlines.
Competing in sports
Poor physical appearance
trying to achieve perfection
Lack of proper sleep
Less sleep than mandatory
Over-involvement in several activities

If you do not need to deal with headaches, it is important that you keep stress in control. Here are some tips that will help you keep stress in control.

Recognize potential triggers : Keep a log of the triggers that cause you stress. They might be habits, situations or personality issues.

Manage time effectively: Schedule your tasks by allocating adequate time period for each of them. Perform a single task at a time.

Take breaks : Take time out to clear your consciousness if you believe you are besieged in a complicated situation. A short walk or a stretch break may replenish your energy.

Start exercising everyday. Exercising releases endorphins in your body and helps combat a headache.

Have proper diet : A diet loaded in fruits, plants and grains energises you and keeps stress in hand.

Go on vacation : take five from your daily schedule and head out for a vacation or a weekend getaway. Time off will help you regain your point of view and calm you down adequately.

giggle : Humor is an acceptable approach to easing stress. Laughter releases the chemical endorphin into the brain which keeps your mood positive.

There are many OTC medications available as well to treat stress induced headaches and include Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, and Acetaminophen. Prescription medicines include Tolmetin, Ketoprofen, Diclofenac, Isometheptine, codeine and Hydrocodone.

Autor: Daniel Day

To know more about Causes of Headache and Headache Treatments visit: http://www.headacheupdates.com/migraine/


Added: September 14, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Headaches-Caused-By-Str~

Friday, September 11, 2009

What Is The Link Between Stress And Headaches?

It is widely believed that one in seven people in the United States gets a headache every day of their life! Now, most of these that are experienced are not migraines but can be many other types of headaches including stress headaches. But is stress actually responsible for these headaches and how are they connected?

Well, medically there is no exact definition for this type of headache but it is known to be caused by tension in the muscles of the forehead, neck, and face that can be caused by stress. So, essentially, stress has a connection to headaches because it induces the tension and muscle contraction that is the root of the pain you feel. Naturally, if you can reduce your stress you will be able to reduce this tension in the muscles and often times can prevent headaches from occurring.

Science has in recent years developed very effective treatments and medicines for migraine headache sufferers but little has been designed to handle stress headaches. The common thread between migraines and tension headaches is that both cause inflammation which is related to the nervous system which controls our adrenaline. Adrenaline created energy within our muscles and nerves which triggers other chemical responses leading to excess inflammation and ultimately pain.

Tension or stress can lead to habits such as teeth grinding, frowning, squinting and other things caused by negative emotions. These behaviors lead to further pain and can make the headache worse. So, if this sounds like something you do, you should definitely look into stress management and relaxation techniques. By practicing these techniques, you will keep your muscles relaxed and prevent those behaviors that can cause headaches.

Try to relax your face, jaw, and eyes as well as your shoulders and neck muscles. Massage can be very effective in relaxing these muscles and can go a long way in preventing or at the very least lessening the severity of your headaches. If you suffer from frequent stress headaches, the good news is that you can naturally heal yourself without relying on medications or expensive treatments by simply learning how to reduce and handle your stress levels.

Autor: Sarah McCurdy

If you would like more info about Stress and Headaches go to http://www.healthlog.org where you will find free health articles, tips and advice.


Added: September 11, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/What-Is-The-Link-Betwee~

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Cefaly - A Novel design Electrotherapy Device for Prevention and Treatment of Headache


About Cefaly Treatment


Cefaly is the first cranial analgesic electrotherapy device to have advanced Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation treatment and an ISO medical certification. Cefaly can also help people experiencing painful discomfort of trigeminal neuralgia and frontal sinusitis.

Headache is not specific to a particular age group but a more generalized problem. Cefaly is known to acts on the physiological mechanisms that are not age reliant. Therefore, Cefaly aids in alleviating symptoms and preventing them regardless of your age. Moreover, Cefaly is suitable for children also from age 8 and above, provided it is used under adult supervision.


Cefaly employs sophisticated state of art technology using Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation therapy in a patented device that is lightweight, easy to use and effective.


Cefaly creates gentle electric impulses that act on the nerve cells. It works on nerves responsible for the pain and various other sensations in the area that is most associated with migraine and headache.



Cefaly is beneficial, when the pain is located in the front half or the skull. Through its skin electrode, Cefaly transmits detailed electrical impulses intended to manipulate the trigeminal nerve utilizing Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation to prevent pain signals from being realized in the brain and thus hampering the stimulation of endogenous endorphin production.


Worn like a pair of spectacles, Cefaly is designed to prevent and treat chronic and recurrent headache and substantially reduce or prevent stress and stress related anxiety. During the 20 minute Cefaly treatment session, a pleasant tingling sensation is felt. The intensity of the sensation can be adjusted to personal preferences. The treatment can be repeated immediately, if required. However, there are no known benefits when the pain is located at the back of the skull or in the lower part of the face below the eyes.


Cefaly should not be used:


  • After a recent brain or facial trauma

  • If suffering from Meniere's disease

  • If having broken or damaged skin on the forehead, in the area of electrode application

  • While driving or operating heavy industrial machinery



Why Cefaly?


Cefaly utilizes Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation therapy and is well recognized for its efficacy, safety and absence of side effects. It is not only harmless but very safe to use. Its safety standards have been demonstrated in tests as well as in clinical studies. No adverse side effects were evident during clinical trials.


Cefaly generates very precise electrical impulses which stimulate the nerve fibres selectively. As the impulses are generated very gradually, they are barely visible at the start of the treatment session. Because of advanced technology, Cefaly enables the electronic feedback mechanism to adjust the electrical impulses to specific requirements tailored for efficacy and comfort.


Cefaly user statistics reveal that:


  • 95% of users find Cefaly very simple to use

  • 87% of users describe a definite improvement

  • 79% of users saw a drastic reduction in their consumption of drugs

  • 2 out of 3 tension headache are relieved with the use of Cefaly

  • 65% reduction in headache with only 20 minutes of Cefaly use

  • 66% reduction in severe pain after only 20-40 minutes of Cefaly use

  • 59% reduction in recurrence and duration of painful headache

  • 1 in 4 migraine attacks are controlled by Cefaly use



Cefaly Technical Guide


Cefaly is supplied with:


  • A carry case

  • Fitted batteries (2 x 1.5V AAA alkaline batteries)

  • Skin electrode

  • Cleansing wipes

  • Easy to follow User Manual



Use of Cefaly is uncomplicated to easy. It is worn like a pair of spectacles or a forehead band. Its technical guide includes :



    • Firstly place the self adhesive reusable Cefaly electrode on the forehead.

    • Then the Cefaly unit is positioned over the electrode to form an electrical connection.

    • The button on the device is pressed and Cefaly starts delivering the 20 minute treatment automatically. For the extent of the treatment, the individual can either relax or carry on with the task in hand.

    • But use of Cefaly is prohibited while driving.

    • When the treatment is concluded, Cefaly unit is first removed from your forehead, followed by the skin electrode.

    • During the session, a pleasant tingling sensation may be felt and the intensity of the sensation can be adjusted to suit personal preferences.

    • After the completion of one treatment session, Cefaly and the electrode can be stored away in its holder or another session can be started immediately, if needed.

    • After conclusion of the session, a localized tickling sensation may be felt on the forehead.

    • This pleasant sensation of lightness and coolness may be felt all over the forehead and may extend to the whole of face, lasting for several hours at a stretch.

    • On the other hand, a deep feeling of rest and relaxation is felt with this anti-stress effect and a very strong sense of wellbeing envelopes the body.

    • Cefaly treatment is found to be the most viable way of increasing the production of endorphins naturally, giving the individual a profound sense of general wellbeing.





    Autor: Mark Bevan

    Webmaster associated with headache related site headclinic.co.uk. This site provides various information on stress treatment, migraine relief and cefaly electrotherapy. Resources are available on site headclinic.co.uk


    Added: September 10, 2009
    Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Cefaly---A-Novel-design~

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Eliminate Migraine Headache Pain in Just Minutes Using a Safe Natural Migraine Cure

Do you suffer from agonizing migraines on a regular basis? Is the treatment you are using safe, effective, and affordable? If you answered no to either of these questions, you owe it to yourself to read on and learn more about my safe natural migraine cure.

Migraine headaches are among the most serious and painful type of headaches. They are usually described as an intense, throbbing or pounding pain that involves your temple, forehead, around the eyes, or the back of the head. They can also be accompanied by flashing, brightly colored lights in a zigzag pattern usually starting in the middle of the visual field and progressing outward and can also include abnormal tastes and smells. Severe migraines can last for several days, but using my safe natural migraine cure, you can easily eliminate migraine pain in a matter of minutes.

Migraines are caused by the enlargement of blood vessels and the release of chemicals from nerve fibers that coil around these blood vessels. As your blood vessels enlarge, the nerves surrounding them stretch. This stretching action causes the nerves to release chemicals. These chemicals cause inflammation, pain, and further enlargement of the artery, which intensifies the pain.

About 10% of the world"s population suffers from migraine headaches. And this serious problem is largely under-treated and, in most sufferers, undiagnosed. In fact, less than half of migraine headache sufferers are diagnosed by their doctors.

For most individuals, the first course of treatment for migraines is an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, among others. Your doctor can also prescribe other medications like triptans to relieve the pain from migraine headaches. But these remedies only treat the symptoms of migraines; that is, they are only effective once the pain begins. And most of these treatments can have very serious side effects, you are much better off using a natural migraine cure.

Using traditional migraine remedies on an ongoing basis can also be very expensive. And, they only mask your headache symptoms. They do nothing to eliminate the cause of your headaches. Using these traditional treatments, your headaches will return again and again! On the other hand, my natural migraine cure works in just minutes and will eliminate migraines from your life forever.

Alternative holistic medical approaches can also be effective for some migraine sufferers. Of course, you should discuss these alternative approaches with your doctor before trying any of these treatments.

If you suffer from painful migraines, you owe it to yourself to check out my natural migraine cure. It gets rid of migraine pain in just minutes and it eliminates them forever. For more information on this revolutionary, safe treatment; go to Natural Migraine Cure!


Autor: Jo Mark

Get rid of migraine pain in just minutes and eliminate them forever. For more information on this revolutionary, safe treatment; go to Natural Migraine Cure!


Added: September 9, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Eliminate-Migraine-Head~

Monday, September 7, 2009

Astounding New Therapy for Temple Headache Migraines

About ten percent of the planet's population suffers from a condition known as a temple headache. The symptoms include a debilitating stabbing discomfort generally on one side of the head surrounding the temple or eyes. It can be accompanied by nausea and vision problems as well. Many individuals complain of blurry vision, double vision, seeing sparks, flashes of light, and zigzags of light. If you are experiencing some or all these symptoms, you are most likely afflicted by a temple headache [ which is really a kind of migraine ].

The typical temple headache comes on quickly and lasts two to three hours. But, some unlucky individuals, can suffer from this excruciating pain for 2 or 3 DAYS. And that is an awful long time to be suffering discomfort.

So, what causes a temple headache? Customarily It is brought on by one of the following triggers:

Stress
Anxiety
Being over-tired
Certain medications
Alcohol
Certain odors
specific foods

Monosodium glutamate [ commonly called MSG ], is assumed to be an element in the root of a temple headache for many of us. MSG is frequently used in Chinese and Asian cuisine.

While most everyone experiences a headache at some time in their life, it normally goes away after taking a pain reliever like aspirin or ibuprofen. So, if your first thought was to take an over-the-counter pain medication, forget it. This classic remedy has little effect on a temple headache. But this doesn't suggest that you need to suffer with the agony.

One of the quickest, easiest and cheapest things you can do is to apply a cold compress to your head at the 1st signs of a temple headache. Many folks claim that this is extremely beneficial if you start the cold compresses straight away. As an alternative, you can splash cold water onto your face.
Personally, I have had success using an easy three step process called The Migraine Solution. It eased the agony for me in a matter of minutes. Although I realize that there is no single cure that works for everyone, The Migraine Solution was really effective for me.

Discover how to eliminate YOUR temple headache migraines for good! Get more information on this quick, permanent migraine solution at Temple Headache Cure!


Autor: Jo Mark

Discover how to eliminate YOUR temple headache migraines for good! Get more information on this quick, permanent migraine solution at Temple Headache Cure!


Added: September 7, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Astounding-New-Therapy-~

Saturday, September 5, 2009

Migraine can be severely debilitating but proper treatment and prevention may help


Who get migraine?


Physiologically, migraine headache is a neurological condition that is more commonly known to afflict women than men. Women experience migraines at least three times more often than men, probably because of hormonal changes. However, migraines can occur in children also, but they mostly appear in people in their twenties or thirties.



Studies have revealed that migraines could be inherited. For example, if one parent is afflicted with migraine, there is a 40% chance that the child will have migraine. If both parents have migraine, the probability increases to 75 %.


Although, there is no specific migraine personality, most migraine sufferers have been found to be perfectionists, high-strung, conscientious, orderly, analytical and critical.


Symptoms and treatment of migraine


Symptoms of Migraine


Migraine pain generally differs from other types of headache; it has specific symptoms that may vary in intensity, character, frequency and duration. Migraine attacks can appear from a couple of times a year to almost every day. The two main types of migraine are:


  • Classical Migraine - migraine with aura

  • Common Migraine - migraine without no warning or aura



A few migraine patients may experience an aura, which is normally treated as a sign of the pain to come. The aura consists of bright spots or zigzag lines and blurred vision or temporary visual loss. In rare cases numbness or tingling of the face and lips can also be observed. However, these symptoms generally disappear within an hour and are then replaced by a headache. In some cases the aura may not be followed by headaches.



Common migraine headache mostly begin without warning and are most commonly experienced by children. Common symptoms of this migraine are associated with :


  • Intense head pain (the pain begins on one side of the head and spreads downward to the eye, face and even neck; the pain can also switch sides or affect both sides at once)

  • Relentless throbbing or pounding deep in the head

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Strong and painful reactions to light and loud noises

  • Activity associated pain (the simple act of moving may be difficult during the migraine attack)

  • Not being able to carry out day to day activities.

  • The need to lie down during attacks



People may sometimes experience all or some of the symptoms which are either moderate or severe. Migraine attacks may last from anywhere up to four hours to three days. This affliction has the potential to severely disrupt your work and family life as well as your social activities.


Migraine trigger


Migraine, it is believed, is triggered by changes in the neurotransmitters and blood vessels in the brain. However, certain factors have been identified that can trigger attacks in susceptible people. They are :


  • Stress (or sometimes the relief of stress)

  • Lack of food or infrequent meals

  • Certain foods products containing monosodium glutamate, caffeine, tyramine or alcohol

  • Overtiredness (both physical and mental)

  • Changing sleep patterns (e.g. weekend lie ins, sleeplessness or shift work)

  • Hormonal factors (e.g. monthly periods, contraceptive pill, HRT or menopause)

  • Extreme emotions (e.g. anger, grief etc.)

  • Physical activity

  • Environmental factors (e.g. loud noise, bright or flickering lights, strong perfumes, hot stuffy atmosphere, VDUs etc.)

  • Climatic conditions (e.g. strong winds, extreme heat or cold)



For most people, afflicted with migraines, it is usually not any one trigger but a combination of factors which collectively work against a person's threshold and an attack is triggered.


Cefaly medical device for migraine



Cefaly is a medical device that relieves pain in people suffering from migraines and cluster/tension headaches as well as trigeminal neuralgia and frontal sinusitis. It has a full EEC medical certification. A patented system, it bears the ISO and CE medical mark.



The unit consists of a band that is worn around the front of the head and it then sends electrical impulses through an electrode patch placed in between the eyebrows. This device works on the trigeminal nerves at the front of the face. It works at three programs levels. They are:


  • Programs 1 - Is a treatment programs, based on TENS technology. It works on blocking the flow of pain at the entrance of the spinal cord.

  • Programs 2 - Is the preventive or endorphinic programs. It increases the endorphins (natural painkillers) in the central nervous system.

  • Programs 3 - Is the anti-stress and relaxation programs.



Numerous tests and clinical studies have been conducted that prove that Cefaly is effective, with almost 85% of its users being extremely satisfied with the results.



Autor: Mark Bevan

Webmaster associated with headache related site headclinic.co.uk. This site provides various information stress, hay fever and headache relief treatment. Resources are available on site headclinic.co.uk


Added: September 5, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Migraine-can-be-severel~

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Know what headache and stress is all about


About tension headache


More than 300 known medical disorders can produce headaches. Primary headaches include migraine, tension-type and cluster headache. Furthermore, about 90% of the people who see a doctor for headaches will generally have one of the above mentioned types of headaches. Primarily, headaches are considered to be harmless, but there recurrence can be an issue for many people.



Tension headaches are further divided into episodic or chronic with the presence or absence of pericranial muscle tenderness (pain on the outside of the skull).


People with episodic tension-type headaches will normally have a history of at least 10 previous headache episodes lasting from 30 minutes to 7 days but occurring fewer than 180 times a year. This type of headache must have at least two of the following characteristics like:


  • Pressing/tightening (non-pulsating) quality, located on both sides of the head

  • Mild or moderate intensity

  • Not aggravated by routine physical activity

  • No nausea or vomiting

  • Possible sensitivity to light or sound but not both



People with chronic tension-type headache have an average headache frequency of 15 days a month or 180 days a year for 6 months. In addition, these people must also meet the criteria for episodic tension-type headache. Moreover, people suffering from chronic tension-type headache must not be suffering from another disorder that is easily detected by a physical and neurological examination.


How to detect a headache caused by stress and tension


Diagnosis of most tension-type headaches, are based on a person's medical history as well as a complete and comprehensive physical examination. It is understood that no further diagnostic studies are needed for these people who present with normal neurological examination findings and are otherwise healthy.


On the contrary, people with chronic tension-type headache, must undergo a CT scan and an MRI, regardless of what their neurological examination findings are. Although this medically advanced imaging may rarely help in diagnosing a specific type of headache syndrome, it may definitely prove invaluable in excluding other causes of headaches. Moreover, it is essential that tests like thyroid function studies, complete blood cell count, and metabolic screening also be performed to ascertain the cause of the headache.


Causes of headache and stress


The onset of tension-type headaches is generally associated with stress or upsetting emotional situations. However, studies involving these factors have not been shown to lead to muscle contraction or reduced blood flow to the head. Nonetheless, people may suffer from tenderness of the muscles surrounding the head region. Therefore, it can safely be assumed that tension-type headaches are not a result of sustained muscle contraction.



According to existing evidence, which is also the most convincing; deliberation of the issue has led the researchers to conclude that a central nervous system dysfunction is the underlying cause of most tension-type headaches. As a consequence, muscle aches during tension-type headaches are thought to be a result of increased sensitivity of the nervous system. Moreover, these muscle pains are a result of occasional or long-term imbalances in brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, enkephalins).



Studies have revealed that some people with primary headache disorders may respond to medications that are designed to specifically target and influence serotonin levels in the brain. Positive response is generally seen in people suffering primarily from migraines or cluster headaches. On the contrary, people who are not afflicted with migraine or cluster headache do not respond positively to serotonin-targeted drugs.



Similarly, there is a possibility that people with chronic tension-type headaches may also have neurochemical imbalances in their body. In fact, depression may also be an essential factor in a certain number of people with chronic tension headaches. Furthermore, sleep disorders could also be linked to serotonin depletion.


Headache medication


Prescription-strength pain relievers may be given once the doctor has a better understanding of a person's headache as well as the various other coexisting medical conditions that a patient may present with. However, care must be taken to prevent people from becoming dependent on strong narcotic drugs, especially when headaches are not a one-time thing but tend to recur at regular intervals.


For headaches, doctors may first prescribe pain relievers like:


  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

  • Triptans

  • Ergots

  • Anti-nausea medications

  • Butalbital combinations

  • Opiates



However, pain that cannot be controlled with pain relievers, doctors may prescribe preventive therapy such as:


  • Cardiovascular drugs (Beta blockers, Calcium channel blockers and antihypertensive drugs)

  • Antidepressants

  • Anti-seizure drugs

  • Cyproheptadine

  • Botulinum toxin type A (Botox)




Autor: Mark Bevan

Webmaster associated with headache related site headclinic.co.uk. This site provides various information on migraine, tension headache and hay fever treatment. Resources are available on site headclinic.co.uk


Added: September 4, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/-Know-what-headache-and~

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Alternative Health Answers to Common Head Aches, Pains, and Problems

Your head: It houses your brain, your smile, the windows to your soul-in other words, you can't get by without it. It's also probably the part of the body most prone to sickness and pain. Our temples get throbby, noses get stuffy, and eyes get achy and itchy. But rather than reaching for an aspirin or eye drops, try one of these natural techniques to soothe what ails you.

(Medical Note: Talk to your doctor before trying any naturopathic remedy.)

Pounding Headaches

Probably the most common ailment-according to the National Headache Foundation, more than 45 million Americans suffer from chronic, recurring headaches. The ubiquitous pains can be caused by everything from hormones to hunger to bad posture to an obnoxious boss (read: stress). Before you self-treat your achin' head, Carmen Ripley, N.D., a naturopathic physician with the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Oregon, says to be sure "that the headache is not your first or worst." Meaning you've never had a headache (not many of us are likely to fall in that category) or it's uncommonly bad. "If you've suddenly got a piercing behind-the-eye pain, see a doctor," says Ripley, "because your headache could herald another, more serious problem."

Whether your headache is of the migraine variety or a regular old tension headache, Ripley recommends taking passiflora or feverfew, both of which are available in capsules. "These calming herbs relax the constricting blood vessels that are causing the headache, and they promote blood flow," she says. Another good remedy for easing head pain is to lay a cold compress across your head and put your feet in a warm bath. Then cover your lap with a blanket. "The hot-cold contrast pulls the blood away from your head, which can ease the pounding," says Ripley.

You can also try nipping a throbber in the bud by "taking two hundred fifty to five hundred milligrams of magnesium when you feel one coming on," says Ripley. "Magnesium is a good muscle relaxer. It can keep parts of your body from getting tense, which triggers the headache."

And finally, know your triggers. "Tension headaches are often caused by environment-anything from a bad chair to dim lighting at your computer screen or hunger," says Ripley. Also, certain foods, like chocolate, red wine, and coffee, are often headache culprits. Conversely, "drinking lots of water and eating foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, like fish, can prevent headaches," explains Ripley.

Stuffiness and Sniffles

To relieve congestion, try a hot-cold treatment. "Take a very hot three-minute shower, then rinse in cold water and repeat the process twice more. When you're finished with the hot-cold treatment, relax in bed," says Ripley. "Not only does this unstuff you, it also activates your immune system." And for a less labor-intensive remedy, she suggests you heat a pot of water infused with essentials oils (try lavender) and inhale the steam, or simply rub the oil on your temples, chest, and nasal passages to clear up stuffiness.

Itchy, Watery Eyes

Watery, itchy eyes plague many people this time of year as allergy season heads into full-bloom. Ripley recommends two naturopathic remedies, both available in capsule. "Stinging nettle capsules and quercitin both work like antihistamines," she says, "by stopping the allergic reaction." As for eye pain, "You can buy a homeopathic eye-drop remedy containing Euphrasia. That helps for watery eyes." If your eyes are dry and itchy, she suggests trying a clean, cold compress.

Troublesome Toothaches

A toothache can be agonizing, and it usually heralds some other problem, like an abscess or cavity. If you need immediate relief, try drinking chamomile tea or rubbing your mouth with a gel or ointment containing chamomile. "It can work like a local anesthetic," says Ripley. "You can also try herbs like passiflora or piscidia; both are good analgesics that can ease tooth pains."


Autor: Anna Brandt

FitClick.com - Fitness Program


Added: September 2, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Alternative-Health-Answ~

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Headaches and Migraines - A Pain Relieving Guide for Evasion and treatment

If there is one problem that has affected almost every human - it"s a headache. Commonly, a headache is a general name for any pain felt in the brain. This ache usually arises owing to a combination of reasons and therefore, it is essential that one knows about these reasons before looking for a cure. Understanding the basis of a headache or migraine can usually assist one in preventing them till a certain period.

Widely speaking, there are four types of headaches -
1. Myogenic - Muscular headache which arises due to strain and tension in muscles.
2. Vascular - These are caused because of an unbalanced blood stream near the brain. Fever headaches and migraines are two of the regular vascular headaches.
3. Inflammatory - These headaches generally result in an enlargement of the head and are triggered by allergies such as common cold, flu, etc.
4. Traction - Such headaches are rare as they are started when nerve fibres are pulled. Brain tumours, cysts, aneurysms, etc are the regular reasons for traction headaches and surgery is necessary for effective treatment.

Migraines - An extreme type of Headaches

Migraines are a baffling kind of headaches and science reasons out a big number of diverse factors which commonly lead to one. A migraine typically contains other problems such as severe sensitivity to light or noise (or both), unclear vision, nausea and general bodily uneasiness. Though the one particular cause of Migraine headaches is still not clear, the general consensus is that they are triggered by chemical irregularities in the brain. However, there are several other factors too which lead to migraine issues such as -

Dietary, Hormonal or medicinal factors - Uneven dietary patterns, certain citrus foods, cheese and even chocolate have been known to set off migraine problems in delicate people. Certain people have to endure such headaches when they are undergoing hormonal modifications or when some pills respond to their expected bodily functions.
Lifestyle or Environmental factors - Watching too much television, listening to noisy music repeatedly, change of place or weather, etc can also lead to painful migraine issues.

Cure for Headaches and Migraine

There are a number of solutions known these days that can successfully cure all types of headaches (over 200!) and even Migraines. These medicines come in the form of natural practices such as oil presses, acupuncture therapy and various stress-busting exercises or recommended pills that are sold over-the-counter. Medicinal pills work most effectively if the ache is mild and not regular as they grant a fast cure. On the other hand, depending on pills for every day headaches can be dangerous as they can trigger brutal side-effects. In such cases, depending on natural therapy is worthwhile as they help in bringing an encouraging change to one"s routine in the long run. Acupuncture is a recommended cure for common headaches and migraine issues. It is said that some points in the body such as the temple are identified for controlling headaches and migraines. soothing these areas can quickly bring about a cure.
Conclusively, if a headache is deep seated, it is sensible to discuss the problem with one"s private physician.


Autor: john jamey wilson

John Wilson is an expert in the field of headaches and migraines and runs an authoritative website also which discusses all the problems associated with headaches and migraines exhaustively.


Added: September 1, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Headaches-and-Migraines~