Health issues
Definition
Cephalalgia is the medical term describing pain in the head. It is a pain felt in the head, jaw, or upper neck. They can be occasional or recurrent, mild or very intense, and affect different areas (forehead, temples, back of the head…).Headaches are not a disease in themselves: they are a symptom that may occur in many situations such as fatigue or stress, or may reflect a more specific neurological condition.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the type:Tension-type headache• Sensation of pressure, tightness, or a band around the head• Continuous pain, mild to moderate• Rarely associated symptoms• Often linked to stress, fatigue, or poor postureMigraineMigraine is a specific type of headache, often more severe. It is not just a bad headache: it is a neurological disorder with specific features (ICHD3 criteria):• Pulsating pain, often on one side• Duration of 4 to 72 hours without effective treatment• Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells• Nausea or vomiting• Sometimes preceded by visual, sensory, or motor disturbances called “aura”Migraine is therefore a specific type of headache requiring tailored management.Other types of headachesLess common types include trigeminal neuralgia, cluster headaches, paroxysmal hemicrania, medication-overuse headaches, and secondary headaches due to underlying conditions.
Prevalence (Belgium)
Headaches are very common:Most adults experience at least one headache per yearAbout 20% of adults report migraines yearly in BelgiumWomen are more affected than menMigraines and tension headaches are the most common
Medical care
Management depends on the type of headache, its frequency, its intensity, and its impact on daily life. It is based on:An accurate diagnosisIdentification of triggering factorsAn appropriate treatment planPrevention of recurrenceDiagnosisDiagnosis is mainly based on:Medical consultation: description of the pain, frequency, duration, and associated symptomsClinical (neurological) examinationInternational diagnostic criteria (e.g. number of attacks, duration, associated signs, etc.)In most cases of primary headaches (such as migraine or tension-type headache), no additional tests (CT scan, MRI) are required as a first-line approach.Treatment – Acute PhaseObjective: to relieve the attack when it occursFor tension-type headaches:Rest and hydrationSimple analgesics (paracetamol, ibuprofen, according to medical advice)For migraine:Specific treatment to be taken at the first signsMedications such as triptans, sometimes prescribed by a doctor depending on the situationAnti-nausea medication if nausea is presentTreatment taken too late or too frequently may sometimes worsen headaches (rebound effect).Chronic Treatment / Follow-upIf you experience frequent or disabling headaches:Keep a headache diary (date, duration, etc.)Regular medical evaluation with your general practitioner and follow-up with a neurologist if necessaryPrevention with:Lifestyle modifications (sleep, hydration, stress)Preventive medications (by prescription)Complementary techniques (physiotherapy, stress management, relaxation, physical activity, etc.)For chronic or severe migraine, specific preventive treatments may be proposed. For these, it is necessary to complete and keep headache calendars throughout the course of the condition.
FAQ
1. What is a cephalalgia (headache)?
A cephalalgia, also called a headache, is pain felt in the head or neck. There are different types of headaches, the most common being tension-type headache and migraine.
2. What is the difference between a headache and a migraine?
Migraine is a specific type of headache. It is characterized by:Pulsating pain ("beating"), often on one side of the headModerate to severe intensityAssociated symptoms (nausea, aura, etc.)Migraines are a type of headache, but not all headaches are migraines.
3. What are the most common causes of headaches?
The most frequent causes include:Stress and fatigueLack of sleepDehydrationMuscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and scalpMigraineIn most cases, headaches are not linked to a serious illness.
4. When should I see a doctor for headaches?
It is recommended to consult a doctor if:Headaches are frequent or worseningPain is unusual or very severeHeadaches interfere with daily lifeUsual medication is no longer effectiveYour primary care doctor recommends specialist advice
5. What are warning signs of a serious headache?
Seek urgent medical attention if the headache:Appears suddenly and is very severeIs accompanied by fever, stiff neck, or confusionIs associated with unusual neurological symptoms (vision, speech, weakness)These situations are rare but require prompt evaluation.
6. Can stress cause chronic headaches?
Yes. Stress is a major trigger for tension-type headaches and can worsen migraines. Prolonged exposure to stress can lead to recurrent or chronic headaches.
7. Can painkillers cause headaches?
Yes. Taking painkillers too frequently can cause medication-overuse headaches, with almost daily pain. Medical advice is recommended if treatment is taken multiple times per week or more than 10 days per month.
8. Do I need a CT scan or MRI for headaches?
In most cases, imaging is not necessary. A CT scan or MRI is only recommended in specific situations, based on medical evaluation, for example when warning signs are present.
9. Is migraine a chronic disease?
Migraine is a chronic neurological condition that occurs in attacks. It can be managed with appropriate treatment and regular medical follow-up. Migraine may improve or worsen over a person’s lifetime.
10. How can I prevent headaches and migraines?
Prevention involves:Regular sleepAdequate hydrationStress managementIdentifying triggersPreventive treatment if necessaryMedical follow-up allows management to be adjusted as needed.
11. Who should I consult for repeated headaches?
For frequent headaches, it is recommended to:First consult your general practitionerSee a neurologist if necessary, based on your doctor’s adviceErasmus Hospital (H.U.B.) offers specialized care for headaches and migraines. SecMed [dot] Neuro [dot] erasme [at] hubruxelles [dot] be (Make an appointment).
Useful Resources and Links
For more information or support:
Belgian Headache League – information, peer support, and patient resources (FR)
Headache Calendar (document to download and complete) FR