Nearly everyone will experience a headache at one point or another, since they occur for a variety of reasons. Our team at AFC Urgent Care Fountain City wants you to know the different types of headaches, as well as steps you can take to both prevent and treat a headache so that you can get back to enjoying the holiday season!

What Does Your Headache Mean?

That’s a tricky question, because every headache occurs for a unique and distinct reason. Headaches can appear for a number of reasons, including stress, emotional distress, high blood pressure, anxiety or depression. They can also accompany both bacterial and viral infections.

Common Types of Headaches

• Migraines
• Tension headaches
• Cluster headaches
• Exertional headaches
• Hypnic headaches

How Can You Prevent a Headache?

While sometimes a headache will just appear, there are things you can do to help avoid headache triggers, including maintaining good posture, sleeping on a proper pillow, drinking plenty of water, learning how to manage stress and getting enough sleep at night. If you do experience a headache, though, there are steps you can take to help alleviate the discomfort.

Treatment for Headaches

• Rest in a quiet, dark room.
• Use hot or cold compresses on your head or neck.
• Massage your temples.
• Sip on small amounts of caffeine.
• Take an over-the-counter medication, such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen or aspirin.

Is your headache more than just a headache? It could be a symptom of the flu. Stop by AFC Urgent Care Fountain City today! No appointment is necessary.