It could be a cough headache if your head hurts when you cough. This only happens to a few people; only about 1% or 3 million individuals will experience it in their lifetime.
Cough headaches are more common in people over 40. This article will explore what causes cough headaches, their symptoms, and how to treat them.
If your head hurts when you cough, you have what's known as a cough headache. These are episodes of moderate to severe headache pain that can endure for a few seconds to a few hours.
The exact reason behind cough headaches remains somewhat mysterious.
Many healthcare experts believe that when you cough, it boosts the pressure in your chest and abdomen. Consequently, this elevated pressure impacts your brain, leading to a headache.
These headaches can also be triggered by other types of strain, such as:
Before seeking treatment for your cough headache, it's crucial to differentiate between the two types.
Doing so ensures you receive the appropriate medical attention and helps rule out any underlying health issues that might be responsible for your headache.
The most common type of cough headache is known as a primary cough headache. It's typically short-lived and doesn't lead to lasting problems.
Primary cough headaches occur when the act of coughing itself creates pressure in the skull. This often results in mild frontal head pain that can linger for a few hours.
Usually, primary cough headaches go away on their own or once the coughing stops.
Secondary cough headaches are more intense and severe compared to primary ones. While they still start with a cough, they could signal an underlying health problem.
These underlying issues might involve:
Secondary cough headaches are typically experienced as a sharp or stabbing pain at the back of the head. Getting medical attention may be necessary to address a secondary cough headache.
Cough headaches can have different symptoms depending on the type you have. Here are the typical signs:
Common Symptoms:
Severe Symptoms:
While cough headaches may resolve independently, they can sometimes be linked to an underlying issue. If you're experiencing severe headache symptoms, scheduling an appointment with your doctor is a good idea. This can ensure you receive the correct diagnosis and treatment before the situation becomes more serious.
Additionally, if you have any of the following additional symptoms, it's strongly advised to seek medical attention promptly:
Your general practitioner can typically diagnose a cough headache.
They will likely start with a physical examination and may recommend further diagnostic tests such as X-rays or CT scans.
These tests are essential for your healthcare provider to identify whether your headaches are related to an underlying condition and to pinpoint the specific cause if there is one.
A physical exam is a common method doctors use to assess your overall health. It typically involves the following steps:
Inquiring about:
Following this, your healthcare provider will conduct a physical checkup by:
This is also an opportune time to ask your healthcare provider questions or discuss any changes or concerns you may have noticed about your health.
There are several treatment options available for managing cough headaches. Let's explore what they are:
If you're dealing with a primary or secondary cough headache, your doctor may suggest a combination of medications and home remedies to ease your symptoms. These may include:
Always follow your doctor's guidance and recommendations for the most effective treatment and prevention strategies for your condition.
If your headaches persist or the symptoms worsen significantly, seeking professional medical treatment is essential.
This typically involves a combination of at-home remedies, such as continuing to take pain medication, and other medical interventions, which may include surgical procedures. Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential to determine your condition's most appropriate course of action.
Your doctor might suggest physical therapy or refer you to a chiropractor.
Chiropractors are specialists who focus on conditions impacting the nervous system, including issues with the spine and joints.
They can be beneficial in alleviating head pressure linked to inflammatory spinal conditions.
If you've been diagnosed with secondary cough headaches, your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests such as X-rays and CT scans.
These tests are designed to detect potential spinal cord problems or more severe issues like brain tumours, which can elevate the pressure in your head.
These diagnostic procedures play a crucial role in helping your doctor pinpoint the underlying cause of your head pain and guide you towards the appropriate treatment.
Surgical procedures are typically considered for the treatment of secondary cough headaches, and here are some common reasons for surgery:
If your cough headaches are linked to a brain tumour, you will probably require chemotherapy to target and eliminate the rapidly dividing tumour cells.
Chemotherapy is typically administered in cycles, with rest intervals between each treatment to allow the body to recuperate. Each cycle generally spans a few weeks.
The method of chemotherapy administration, whether orally or through an intravenous (IV) drip, depends on the seriousness of your diagnosis and the treatment plan your healthcare provider prescribes.
Mobi Doctor can provide valuable medical guidance and support for those experiencing cough headaches, offering expert advice, diagnosis, and treatment recommendations to alleviate symptoms and improve overall health.