The phrase "sick headache" may seem like a bit of an oxymoron, but it refers to a specific type of headache characterized by a nauseous feeling. Interestingly, the word "sick" is spelled with a K at the end, which represents the historical spelling of the word. In IPA phonetic transcription, this word is /sɪk/, with a voiceless velar stop at the end instead of the typical voiced sound in modern English. The word "headache" is pronounced /hɛdˌeɪk/, with a stressed syllable on "head" and a schwa sound on the second syllable.
A sick headache, also referred to as a migraine, is a severe recurring type of headache characterized by intense throbbing pain in the head, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. This condition typically affects one side of the head, although it can sometimes spread to both sides. Sick headaches are usually pulsating or throbbing in nature and can last anywhere from a few hours to several days.
The exact cause of sick headaches is not completely understood, but they are believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. Certain triggers, such as stress, hormonal changes, bright lights, strong odors, alcohol, and certain foods, can provoke the onset of a sick headache in susceptible individuals.
During a sick headache episode, individuals may experience a range of symptoms including moderate to severe pain, blurred vision, scalp tenderness, dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. Such symptoms can significantly impair a person's ability to carry out daily activities and may require them to seek a quiet, dark room to rest until the episode resolves.
Treatment for sick headaches often involves a combination of lifestyle modifications and medications. These may include avoiding triggering factors, practicing stress-reducing techniques, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, and taking prescribed medications to manage symptoms. In some cases, preventative measures such as beta blockers, antidepressants, or anti-seizure medications may be prescribed to reduce the frequency and intensity of sick headaches.
Given the disruptive nature of sick headaches and their impact on one's quality of life, individuals experiencing these recurrent headaches are advised to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management strategies.
Migraine, megrim.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Headache attended with disorder of the stomach and nausea.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The term "sick headache" is an archaic phrase that was used in the past to describe a severe headache or migraine. The etymology of the word "sick headache" can be broken down as follows:
- "Sick": This word comes from the Old English word "seoc", meaning "ill" or "diseased". It ultimately traces its roots back to the Proto-Germanic word "seukaz".
- "Headache": This compound word consists of "head", referring to the part of the body at the top, where the brain is situated, and "ache", which comes from the Old English word "aecan", meaning "to give pain". The term "headache" has been used since the late 14th century.
The exact origins of the combined term "sick headache" are unclear. However, it likely emerged during the early modern period when medical terminology was being developed.