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Headaches

Chicago Vitality

Men's Health & Testosterone Replacement located in Schaumburg, IL & Chicago, IL

While women get headaches more frequently, men are eight times more likely to suffer from cluster headaches than women. An occasional headache shouldn't worry you. But, if they're causing you to miss work or skip social activities, it’s time for a checkup at Chicago Vitality. When you call their Chicago, Schaumburg, or Naperville, Illinois office — or book an appointment online — you get to meet with a provider who specializes in headache treatment for men. You won’t have to live another day with frequent head pain.

Headaches Q & A

When should I see a doctor about frequent headaches?

Most headaches don’t require you to head to the doctor, although you should be aware of certain side effects that may warrant a doctor’s visit. Talk with your physician if your headaches:

  • Don’t start until after age 50
  • Change in frequency or intensity
  • Get worse when you cough or move
  • Force you to avoid daily activities
  • Come with a fever or stiff neck

In these cases, you might need some additional screening to get to the root of your headache pain. Having a simple blood draw to check your hormone levels or inflammatory markers helps your doctor determine why you’re getting headaches.

What types of headaches do men get?

Both men and women get tension headaches occasionally, but men are much more likely to suffer from cluster headaches.

Cluster headaches get their name because they cause multiple short bursts of head pain. They tend to cause severe pain around your eyes or temporal lobes, with each headache lasting as long as three hours.

Cluster headaches often cause:

  • Runny or red eyes
  • Nasal congestion or runny nose
  • Facial sweating
  • Droopy eyelids
  • Constricted pupils

Men also have a higher rate of sexually-induced headaches. Pre-orgasmic headaches cause a dull ache in your head and neck.

Some men even get sudden headaches during orgasm. When that happens, you’re left with severe, explosive head pain as you’re climaxing.  

Why do men get headaches?

Stress or dehydration can cause headaches. But men who suffer from frequent headaches might have other issues. Headaches in men are sometimes linked to:

  • Low testosterone
  • Previous sports injuries or concussions
  • Sexual dysfunctions

How are headaches in men treated?

Your practitioner spends time diagnosing the cause of your headaches. If you have low testosterone, for instance, part of your treatment plan may include testosterone replacement therapy. Once any underlying medical issues are resolved, your headache treatment plan can include:

  • Chiropractic adjustments
  • Prescription medications
  • Stress management
  • Increasing physical activity

Part of your headache treatment may include nutrition counseling, too. Caffeine, artificial sweeteners, and other substances in food can increase your headache frequency. By finding these triggers and eliminating them from your diet, your headaches might resolve on their own.