Headaches are among the most common pain condititions

It is so common that it's importance is often neglected. There are few important points to remember:

• Any major changes in severity of headaches needs to be investigated.
• Any new major headaches needs to be investigated.
• Ongoing use of pain killers can cause analgesic rebound headache.
• Headaches can be secondary to other conditions like high blood pressure, stress, neck injuries, infections, etc. It is important to be thoroghly examined to rule out these conditions.
• Migrain headaches need to be treated by preventative medications first or along with abortive pain killers to control the pain.
• Don't let your headaches become chronic before you see your doctor.
• Proper sleep, relaxation, daily exercise and proper diet are essential components of prevention and treatment of headaches.