Headaches are a frequent and heterogeneous category of pathological conditions characterized by pain or discomfort in the head or neck area. The causes can vary, including tension, migraines, or underlying medical conditions. Treatment depends on the type and cause of the headache and may include lifestyle adjustments, medications, or other interventions. The assessment of the Polygenic Risk Score for headaches is based on the examination of 28 gene polymorphisms.
Genetic testing for headaches is included along with 15 other diseases in the Genetic Screening for Diseases of the Nervous System, Polygenic Risk Score.
Causes and non-genetic risk factors
Primary headaches are caused by hyperactivity or disturbances in the pain-sensitive structures of the head. Chemical activity of the brain, the nerves or blood vessels surrounding the skull, or the muscles of the head and neck (or some combination of these factors) may influence their development.
In addition, they can be triggered by lifestyle factors among them:
- Alcohol, especially red wine.
- Certain foods, such as processed meats, contain nitrates.
- Sleep changes or lack of sleep.
- Poor posture.
- Skipping meals.
- Stress
Symptoms
A headache consists of pain in any region on one or both sides of the head, isolated in a particular location or generalized, radiating through the head from one point, or of visceral quality. It may appear as a sharp pain, a throbbing sensation, or a dull ache. Headaches may develop gradually or suddenly, lasting from less than an hour to several days.
Prevention
Currently, there are no measures to prevent the onset of headaches; however, several measures can be taken to reduce and space out the number of outbreaks.
- Sleep approximately 6 to 8 hours, maintaining a regular schedule both during the working day and on rest days.
- Eat a balanced diet five times a day regularly. Avoid excessive sugars, caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods, and maintain good hydration.
- Exercise moderately to reduce stress and stay physically fit. However, excessive exercise, certain types of exercise, or inconsistent exercise patterns can trigger headaches.
- Reduce stress through meditation and other deep relaxation exercises.
