October 13, 2024, 2:27 pm | Read time: 5 minutes
Unfortunately, headaches are part of everyday life for many people. While they are usually harmless and go away quickly, they can also become chronic and severely restrict the lives of those affected. What’s more, women are significantly more frequently affected by headaches than men. But why is that? And what types of headaches are there? STYLEBOOK explains!
Headaches are one of the most common health problems worldwide. According to the German Migraine and Headache Society (DMKG), around 70 percent of the population suffer from them at least once a year – and women are affected more often than men. This difference can mainly be observed in migraines, which affect twice as many women. The exact reasons for this are not yet fully understood, but hormonal fluctuations and a stronger perception of pain in women could play a role.
Overview
The different types of headaches
Experts distinguish between primary and secondary headaches. While primary headaches, such as migraines and tension headaches, are independent illnesses, secondary ones occur as a symptom of another illness, such as a cold or high blood pressure.
Tension headaches
This is the most common type of headache. They are characterized by a dull, pressing pain that usually affects the entire head. The intensity ranges from mild to moderate, making the pain unpleasant but not usually very disabling.
Migraine
Migraines are the second most common headache disorder in Germany and can begin as early as childhood. They are characterized by pulsating, usually one-sided pain, which can be accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and noise. Some sufferers experience a so-called aura: visual disturbances, numbness, or speech problems herald the headache attack.
Cluster headaches
This less common form is characterized by extreme, one-sided pain in the temple and eye area. The attacks often occur in series and are so severe that they can disrupt the sufferer’s everyday life.
Why are women more frequently affected by headaches?
Women suffer from migraines about twice as often as men, and tension headaches also occur more frequently in women. It has long been assumed that female hormones, in particular hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, play a role. According to the Berlin Institute of Health, migraines often coincide with menstruation, but hormonal changes can also trigger or intensify headaches during pregnancy and menopause. Although hormones play a role, they are not the sole cause. Genetic predispositions, stress, and a more sensitive perception of pain also contribute to women being affected more frequently.
Women suffer more from headaches than men
Symptoms and differences between the sexes
The symptoms of headaches vary depending on the type, but in principle, women and men experience similar pain. Tension headaches are often described as dull and pressing, while cluster headaches are perceived as drilling and burning. However, migraines differ: women often report nausea and sensitivity to light during migraine attacks, while men tend to emphasize neurological symptoms such as numbness or tingling.
Evaluation by TK Krankenkasse confirms assumption
According to an analysis by Techniker Krankenkasse (TK), around 18% of female policyholders received medical treatment for headaches or migraines in 2022, compared to just 9% of male policyholders. The representative Forsa survey shows that one in eight people has a headache at least once a week. The most common causes include muscle tension in the head and neck area, which affects 71 percent of women compared to only 55 percent of men. Stress and mental strain also play a major role: 56 percent of women attribute their headaches to stress, compared to 41 percent of men.
Correct treatment for headaches
An accurate diagnosis is the key to effective treatment. A detailed description of the symptoms plays a decisive role here. A doctor will, therefore, ask questions about your lifestyle, stress levels, and possible triggers in addition to a physical examination. If necessary, further examinations such as an EEG, CT, or MRI can be carried out to rule out other causes.
The treatment of headaches depends on the type and intensity of the symptoms. Mild tension headaches can often be relieved by rest, sleep, or home remedies such as peppermint oil. Migraines usually require more comprehensive treatment, which may also include medication. It is important to recognize individual triggers and avoid them as far as possible. Stress reduction, a healthy lifestyle, and relaxation techniques such as yoga or autogenic training can also help reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks.
Tips on prevention and self-help for headaches
No matter what type of headache you suffer from, prevention is key. The following tips could help prevent them:
- Reduce stress: Easier said than done, but relaxation exercises such as progressive muscle relaxation, yoga, or regular exercise have a preventative effect.
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can trigger headaches. Make sure you drink enough fluids. Aim to drink at least 1.5 liters of water a day.
- Healthy sleeping habits: A regular sleep pattern can prevent headaches. However, both excessive and insufficient sleep should be avoided.
- Pay attention to your diet: Certain foods, alcohol, or caffeine can promote headaches. Identify which foods benefit you and which to avoid.
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Expert advice
Migraine expert Prof. Dr. Hartmut Göbel from the Kiel Pain Clinic recommends keeping a headache diary to identify triggers and patterns. Precise documentation and professional support from specialists are crucial for individual and effective treatment. There are also numerous apps available that can help to somewhat ease the daily management of headaches.