If you’re experiencing constant headaches that are relentless and one-sided, you may be suffering from Hemicrania Continua. This condition is a rare type of headache disorder that affects a small percentage of the population. Hemicrania Continua is a chronic condition that can last for months to years and is often misdiagnosed or ignored. In this article, we’ll dive into the symptoms, causes, and treatments of Hemicrania Continua to help you understand this condition better.
What is Hemicrania Continua?
Hemicrania Continua is a type of headache disorder that causes a continuous headache on one side of the head. The pain is often mild to moderate but can be severe at times. The headache is continuous, meaning it doesn’t go away, and it’s usually around the same intensity level all day long. It’s also one-sided, which means it’s only on the left or right side of the head.
Source: bing.comSymptoms of Hemicrania Continua
The symptoms of Hemicrania Continua can vary from person to person, but they typically include:
- Constant headache on one side of the head
- Mild to moderate pain that can become severe
- Eye pain, tearing, or redness on the affected side
- Nasal congestion or a runny nose on the affected side
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Headache worsens with physical activity
- Pain relief with indomethacin
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult with your doctor to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Causes of Hemicrania Continua
The exact cause of Hemicrania Continua is unknown, but it’s believed to be related to a malfunction in the brain’s pain pathways. The hypothalamus, which is the part of the brain that regulates the body’s internal clock, may also play a role in the development of this condition. Additionally, genetics may also be a factor in the development of Hemicrania Continua.
Diagnosing Hemicrania Continua
Diagnosing Hemicrania Continua can be difficult because it’s often misdiagnosed as other types of headaches, such as migraines or tension headaches. To diagnose Hemicrania Continua, your doctor will take a detailed medical history and perform a physical exam. They may also order imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan to rule out other causes of your symptoms.
Treatments for Hemicrania Continua
The primary treatment for Hemicrania Continua is indomethacin, which is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Indomethacin has been found to be effective in treating Hemicrania Continua in up to 80% of patients. If indomethacin isn’t effective, other medications such as topiramate, gabapentin, or verapamil may be prescribed.
In addition to medication, lifestyle changes can also help manage symptoms of Hemicrania Continua. These include:
- Reducing stress
- Maintaining a healthy sleep schedule
- Avoiding triggers such as caffeine or alcohol
- Practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga
Conclusion
Hemicrania Continua is a rare type of headache disorder that affects a small percentage of the population. It’s a chronic condition that can cause constant headaches on one side of the head. The exact cause of Hemicrania Continua is unknown, but it’s believed to be related to a malfunction in the brain’s pain pathways. Indomethacin is the primary treatment for Hemicrania Continua, but other medications may be prescribed if it’s not effective. Lifestyle changes such as reducing stress and avoiding triggers can also help manage symptoms. If you’re experiencing symptoms of Hemicrania Continua, it’s essential to consult with your doctor to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
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