Vascular headache

Vascular headache is a term that was previously used to describe certain types of headache due to abnormalities in the blood vessels in the brain. However, this term is no longer in use by the medical community, as it was found to be misleading. The headaches that were previously grouped under this term are now classified under different categories in the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD).

Classification

The ICHD, published by the International Headache Society, is the most widely accepted classification system for headache disorders. It does not include the term "vascular headache", but it does classify headaches that were previously described as such. These include:

• Migraine: A type of headache characterized by severe pain on one side of the head, often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
• Cluster headache: A type of headache that occurs in cyclical patterns or clusters, characterized by severe pain on one side of the head, often around the eye.
• Tension-type headache: The most common type of headache, characterized by a constant ache or pressure around the head, especially at the temples or back of the head and neck.

Causes

While the exact cause of these headaches is not fully understood, they are thought to involve abnormal activity in the brain, which can affect the blood vessels and nerves in the head. Factors that may trigger this abnormal activity include:

• Stress
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Certain foods and drinks
• Hormonal changes (in women)
• Overuse of medication

Treatment

Treatment for these headaches depends on their severity and frequency, and may include:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Prescription medications
• Lifestyle changes (such as regular exercise and stress management)
• Cognitive behavioral therapy

See also

• Headache
• Migraine
• Cluster headache
• Tension-type headache