🤕 Headaches and Chiropractic Care: When to Visit the ER
Headaches are something most of us experience at some point, whether from a stressful day, slouching over a desk, or something more serious. While many headaches can be managed with rest or a visit to a chiropractor, others demand urgent attention. In this post, Dr. Soammy Matias from Matias Health Chiropractic breaks down the types of headaches, how chiropractic care can help, and when it’s time to head to the ER.
source: https://www.nanavatimaxhospital.org/blogs/types-of-headaches
1. Understanding Different Types of Headaches
Not all headaches are the same. Knowing what type you’re dealing with can guide you toward the right treatment:
- Tension Headaches: A tight, aching band around your head, often triggered by stress or poor posture.
- Migraines: Intense, throbbing pain that might come with nausea or sensitivity to light and sound.
- Cervicogenic Headaches: Pain that starts in your neck due to spinal misalignment or muscle strain.
- Cluster Headaches: Rare but brutal, these strike in cycles and bring severe pain, often around one eye.
2. How Chiropractic Care Can Help
For headaches tied to musculoskeletal issues—like tension or cervicogenic types—chiropractic care can be a game-changer. At Matias Health Chiropractic, Dr. Soammy Matias uses adjustments to:
- Realign the spine to ease nerve pressure
- Loosen tight muscles in the neck and shoulders
- Boost blood flow and cut down inflammation
- Help you relax and feel better overall
If your headaches stem from posture problems or an old injury, regular chiropractic visits might be the relief you’ve been looking for.
3. Red Flags: When to Go to the ER
Some headaches signal something more dangerous. Skip the chiropractor and head to the ER if you notice:
- A sudden, explosive headache—the “worst ever”
- Pain after a head injury
- Vision loss, confusion, or trouble speaking
- Numbness or weakness in your face or limbs
- Fever, stiff neck, or seizures with the headache
These could point to emergencies like a stroke, aneurysm, or meningitis. Don’t wait—get help fast.
4. Making the Right Call for Your Headache
If your headaches are a recurring nuisance without those scary symptoms, chiropractic care could tackle the root cause naturally. But if you’re unsure or something feels off, trust your gut—emergency care might be the safer bet. Dr. Matias can evaluate your symptoms and point you in the right direction.
Conclusion
Headaches don’t have to rule your life. Whether it’s through chiropractic adjustments at Matias Health Chiropractic or knowing when to seek urgent care, you’ve got options. If chronic headaches are wearing you down, book an appointment with Dr. Soammy Matias today to explore personalized, effective solutions.
