Headache

Overview

17%

Estimated percentage of older adults who suffer from chronic headaches (NIH, 2023).

2× higher

Likelihood of experiencing headaches if there is a history of them earlier in life (CDC, 2023).

12 million

Number of seniors experiencing frequent headaches in the United States (APA, 2023).

In plain language

Headaches are a common condition that can significantly impact daily life, particularly in older adults. They can vary in intensity and duration, affecting concentration and overall well-being. While often not serious, persistent headaches should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out potential underlying causes.

A headache is a pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck, and can be a common complaint among seniors. According to the National Institutes of Health, headaches can be divided into primary types, like tension headaches and migraines, or secondary, resulting from underlying medical conditions. Seniors may experience headaches due to medication side effects, vision problems, or other health issues. Managing headaches is crucial, as they can affect quality of life and lead to challenges in maintaining independence. Treatment often involves identifying triggers and using medications or lifestyle changes to prevent occurrences.

Key Information

Review the most relevant symptoms, risk factors, and common care approaches in one place.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing this condition, including:

Medication overuse: Frequent use of painkillers can lead to rebound headaches.
Dehydration: Not drinking enough fluids can cause headaches.
Vision problems: Uncorrected vision issues can strain the eyes, leading to headaches.
Stress: Emotional stress can trigger tension headaches.

Symptoms

Symptoms can vary but often include:

Pain: Ranging from mild to severe, typically in the temples or forehead.
Throbbing sensation: A pulsing or throbbing feeling, often on one side of the head.
Neck stiffness: Tension in the neck muscles that can accompany headaches.
Light sensitivity: Discomfort in bright light, common with migraines.

Coping Strategies

Treatments That May Help

Start with the options that have more supporting research and then review the details with your care team.

Treatment Option

Dietary Management

Dietary management focuses on making thoughtful food choices to maintain good health, prevent disease, and manage chronic conditions. For seniors, balanced nutrition supports energy, mobility, and overall well-being while helping manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and digestion.

5 studies

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Treatment Option

Ayurveda

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that focuses on balance in the body using diet, herbal treatment, and yogic breathing. It can be particularly beneficial for seniors seeking to improve quality of life and manage chronic conditions naturally. The practice emphasizes individualized treatment plans tailored to one's unique constitution.

4 studies

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Treatment Option

Hypnosis

Hypnosis is a therapeutic technique that uses focused attention, relaxation, and suggestion to help manage various conditions, like pain and stress. It can be particularly beneficial for seniors seeking non-invasive methods to improve their mental and physical well-being. Hypnosis offers a calming experience that may complement other treatments.

2 studies

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