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There Is Still Plenty of Life to Live

By The Artful Woman
Lately, it has been hot, so I decided to do something that would make life a little easier. I cooked a bunch of different meals in the crock pot, put them into containers, and froze them. That way, when the weather is hot, I wouldn't have to do much cooking. Then a flyer came in from the local Mexican market. They had pineapples, plantains, mangoes, watermelon, cucumbers—fresh fruits and vegetables at really good prices. They also had beef shanks. So after the gym, I had my caretaker take me to the store. I already had plenty of food at home. I had meals in the freezer, food in the refrigerator, and everything I needed. I wasn't going to the store because I was running out of food. But when I got there, something happened. I felt happy. The store was colorful and full of fresh food. I could choose one of this, two of that, three of something else. I wasn't limited to whatever quantity happened to come in a package. I could actually look at what I wanted and decide what I wa...
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Understanding Headaches After a Stroke: What to Watch For

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By The Artful Woman

Headaches are a common experience for many people, but as a stroke survivor, they can feel more alarming. While others might take a pain reliever and move on, we tend to pause and wonder: Is this just a headache, or is my brain signaling something serious? Understanding the different types of headaches and knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial for stroke survivors.

Written by Jean Marshall Master Wellness Coach

Common Types of Headaches & Their Causes

1. Tension Headaches

  • The most common type of headache.

  • Feels like a dull, tight band around the head.

  • Causes: Stress, poor posture, dehydration, or eye strain.

2. Migraines

  • Intense, throbbing pain, often on one side of the head.

  • Symptoms: Nausea, light/sound sensitivity, and sometimes visual auras.

  • Causes: Hormonal changes, food triggers, stress, or lack of sleep.

3. Cluster Headaches

  • Excruciating pain around one eye, occurring in cycles.

  • Can last weeks or months with frequent attacks.

  • Triggers: Alcohol, smoking, or disrupted sleep patterns.

4. Sinus Headaches

  • Pressure and pain in the forehead, nose, and cheekbones.

  • Caused by sinus infections or allergies.

5. Rebound Headaches

  • Result from overuse of pain medications like ibuprofen or aspirin.

  • Occur when medication wears off, leading to another headache.

6. Hypertension Headaches

  • Pulsing pain on both sides of the head.

  • Linked to high blood pressure.

  • May improve once blood pressure is controlled.

What Stroke Survivors Should Watch For

For stroke survivors, headaches can be a warning sign of something more serious. Here are key symptoms that should never be ignored:

1. Sudden, Severe "Thunderclap" Headache

  • Feels like the worst headache of your life.

  • Could indicate a brain bleed (hemorrhagic stroke).

  • Seek emergency medical care immediately.

2. Headache with Weakness, Numbness, or Slurred Speech

  • Could signal another stroke or a transient ischemic attack (TIA, also known as a "mini-stroke").

  • Call 911 right away.

3. Headache with Vision Changes or Confusion

  • May indicate a neurological issue or restricted blood flow in the brain.

  • Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

4. Headache with Dizziness or Loss of Balance

  • Could be a sign of a problem with blood circulation to the brain.

  • Don't ignore it—consult a doctor.

5. Persistent Headaches After a Stroke

  • May result from nerve damage, blood vessel changes, or post-stroke pain syndrome.

  • If headaches are frequent or worsening, speak with a neurologist.

How to Manage Headaches Safely

If you experience headaches but they are not accompanied by serious symptoms, here are some ways to manage them safely:

  • Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can trigger headaches, so drink plenty of water.

  • Manage Stress: Practice meditation, deep breathing, or relaxation exercises.

  • Monitor Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can contribute to headaches.

  • Improve Sleep: Poor sleep can worsen headaches, so aim for a consistent sleep schedule.

  • Limit Triggers: Avoid caffeine, alcohol, or processed foods if they worsen headaches.

  • Seek Professional Guidance: If headaches persist, consult your doctor for further evaluation.

Final Thoughts

As stroke survivors, our relationship with headaches is different from the average person. While some headaches are harmless, others could be warning signs of a bigger issue. Understanding when to seek help and how to manage headaches effectively can provide peace of mind and better health.

Have you experienced post-stroke headaches? Share your thoughts or tips in the comments below!

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Location: Dana Point, CA, USA

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