There are several kinds of cephaleas which are not associated with an underlying health problem.

First there are those of vascular origin, known as migraines. They can last hours or even days.� The pain is usually accompanied by great sensitivity to light and sound, which during a migraine can be very bothersome, and nausea can also arise. The cause is a change in blood flow in the brain and contraction and dilation of the arteries at the base of the skull and blood vessels in the scalp.

Some migraines show symptoms before the pain itself starts. These can range from seeing lights or spots and a tingling sensation in the extremities. The pain appears in an area of the head and has a� throbbing sensation.

Another kind of migraine are those based on tension. These are more common. Of those with migraines, 80% have this kind. They are caused by stress and tension. There are people who suffer them chronically and other only sporadically, in specific situations.

Migraines have a strong genetic component. Children of people with migraines have a 40% greater chance of suffering from this ailment. It is also said that women are the main victims: data shows for every man that has migraines, there are three women with the problem.

How to fight them
Fighting any kind of head pain requires a multi-front approach. First, you must note when the problem arises, which events precede the onset of pain and if the pain starts after you have ingested a certain food or drink. It is essential to gather as much information as possible before seeing a doctor for them to make a diagnosis and propose treatment.

Besides using drugs, the pain can be alleviated with simple measures such as lying down
in quiet, dark place; applying cold and warm clothes alternately and using relaxation techniques. A proper diet that avoids foods known to cause problems is essential.

It is known that chocolate and cheese are rich in tyramine, a substance that causes blood vessels in the brain to contract and dilate. Also having a negative effect are nitrates, present in additives such as those used to preserve cold cuts, and monosodium glutamate which is found in soy sauce. On the other hand, foods rich in magnesium such as grains and legumes are recommended because this mineral has a positive effect on blood vessels.

Headaches and migraines can be treated with phytotherapy. The Kava Kava herb, for example, activates brain chemicals called neuropeptides, which relax muscles and blood vessels. Ginger helps fight migraines that come with nausea, and lavender is used to alleviate tension-based head pain. Willow root, which has components similar to those of aspirin, has a calming effect and herbs like basil and� mint ease discomfort.

In the area of drugs, common analgesics and non-steroid anti-inflammatory substances are prescribed. They have a calming effect on the pain. With a preventive aim, anti-depressants are used, as are beta-blockers and calcium antagonists. To ease intense pain, ergotamines are used: they are compounds that prevent blood vessels from dilating.