Headaches / Migraine Specialist
Almost every person has encountered headaches at one point or another. Headaches are very common. In many cases, headaches are not serious.
However, some severe headaches can be caused by problems in the neck or TMD issues. It is important to see a chiropractor experienced in treating headaches as soon as possible.
A migraine is a variant/type of headache that occurs repeatedly and tends to cause significant pain. Migraine pains are said to be sore, throbbing, or pounding.
Dr. Gregory Lee DC at Active Family Wellness is an award-winning Fairfax chiropractor in Virginia. He has significant experience in treating headaches.
If headaches or migraines are interfering with your daily life, call us at 703-373-7113 to book an appointment.
Symptoms of Headaches
Some symptoms are associated with headaches:
- Vomiting and Nausea
- Pain in the face
- Sore eyes
- Photophobia (discomfort on exposure to light)
- Dizziness and Vertigo
- Ear ringing
Causes of Headaches
Based on causes, headaches are broadly grouped into two categories:
Primary headaches are headaches that are not associated with any disease condition. Primary headaches may be caused by drinking alcohol, nitrate-containing foods (e.g., processed meat), poor sleep, bad posture, hunger or skipping meals, physical and psychological stress, exercise, sex, too much coughing, and so on.
Secondary headaches are usually more severe and are most of the time linked to an underlying ailment or medical condition. Secondary headaches can be caused by concussions, trauma, brain tumors, ear infections, viral infections, sinusitis, high blood pressure, brain aneurysms, or stroke.
Long-Term Problems Due to Untreated Headaches
It is recommended that you schedule a visit to the doctor if your headaches persist for three or more days or when the pain limits normal physical activity and lifestyle.
Ignoring headache symptoms or relying only on over-the-counter pain medications can delay finding the underlying cause. Frequent use of these medications can also lead to rebound headaches. Chronic headaches can also affect mood and sleep, and some people develop anxiety or low mood. Patients may become addicted to pain medications and be at risk for their associated adverse effects.
Home Remedies For Headaches
- Resting in a quiet, dimly lit room may also help reduce acute symptoms.
- Applying a cold compress, such as an ice pack on your hurting head and neck, will provide some comfort. Press the ice pack on the head and neck for at least 15 minutes.
- A warm compress relaxes throbbing blood vessels and muscles of the head and neck. You may use a warm towel or a hot water bottle.
- If you have not been getting adequate sleep, you need to improve your sleeping habits. Sleeping for at least 7 hours every day will ensure that all of your body is well-rested.
Treatment for Headaches
Chiropractors treat certain types of headaches, such as tension and cervicogenic headaches, by addressing joint and muscle problems in the neck and upper back. Your treatment may include spinal adjustments, soft-tissue therapy, posture correction, and exercises. If your symptoms point to another cause, your chiropractor will refer you to a medical doctor.
Book an Appointment
Please use the booking tool below to request an appointment. Our patient care coordinator will call you shortly to discuss your symptoms and finalize your appointment.
How do we treat headaches?
- (703) 373-7113
Let Us Help to treat your Headaches/Migraine
Do not ignore your Headaches/Migraine, it can become worse over time. It’s important to consult with the doctor and understand the root cause of Headaches/Migraine.
Frequently Asked Questions About Headaches
Is the spine the source of all headaches?
Not all headaches are caused by spinal issues. The various categories and causes of headaches have been discussed in this article. However, spinal headaches usually occur after a medical procedure called a “spinal tap” or “lumbar puncture.” Spinal headaches are dull, throbbing headaches that occur less than 24 hours after a spinal tap. They are generally mild and resolve without treatment in about 24 hours. It is recommended to report to your doctor if a spinal headache persists for more than 24 hours.
What is the difference between a headache and a migraine?
A tension headache, the most common kind of headache, feels like a tight band around the head. It causes a dull, steady ache, often across the forehead or on both sides of the head. It is usually mild to moderate and may last for a few hours.
On the other hand, a migraine tends to range from moderate to severe pulsing/pounding pain at the side of the head. It can be persistent and may go on for days. Some people with migraine notice warning symptoms called an ‘aura’ before the headache begins.
Can a chiropractor help with headaches and dizziness?
Your chiropractor may be able to alleviate and manage your symptoms of headache or dizziness by engaging you in different manipulations or exercises.
Your chiropractor may also teach you a few specific physical movements/exercises to do at home that may be able to benefit your balance and relieve pain and headache.
Is it normal to feel dizzy after a chiropractic adjustment?
Some people feel mild soreness or tiredness for a day after an adjustment. Dizziness is not expected. If you feel dizzy after an appointment, tell your chiropractor. Seek medical care right away if it is severe or comes with vision changes, trouble speaking, or fatigue.
Can trapped nerves in the neck cause headaches?
A certain kind of headache occurs when a nerve is compressed, trapped, or pinched by the vertebrae of the neck. This headache is known as the cervicogenic headache. The causes may be from a whiplash accident, sports injury, or occupational hazards, as in drivers who sway their heads from side to side repeatedly.
When should you worry about a headache?
A headache becomes a concern when it lasts more than 72 hours and does not improve with rest or home care. You should also schedule a clinical visit if the headache is moderate to severe and limits your physical activities and normal lifestyle.
Is it normal to have a headache for three days?
Tension headaches can last several days, but one that lasts more than 72 hours is worth having evaluated by a doctor. Seek care sooner if it is sudden and severe, or comes with fever, a stiff neck, confusion, or vision changes.
Why do I have a headache every day?
You may have a headache because you are stressed, anxious, restless, sleep-deprived, hungry, or dehydrated. You may also have a headache because you had a trauma to the head, neck, or any part of your body. We encourage you to seek chiropractic advice to identify the underlying cause of your headache.
