MCG HEALTH SYSTEM RECOGNIZES NATIONAL HEADACHE AWARENESS WEEK

May 23, 2002

Augusta, Ga - Headaches are a severe biological disease and, if persistent, should be treated. Over $4 billion is spent annually on over-the-counter pain relievers for headaches. Many of these are ineffective for the headache sufferer. MCG Health System recognizes National Headache Awareness Week, June 2-8, 2002, by providing facts about headaches and treatment options.

Facts:

There are five different types of headaches:

• tension-type
• migraine
• cluster
• organic
• rebound

Possible triggers of a headache include: prolonged stress and anxiety, hormones, fatigue, missed meals, some foods, caffeine, alcohol and changes in pressure or altitude.

Migraine sufferers can experience nausea, vomiting, vision or other sensory problems.

Migraines affect one in four households in America with headaches occurring as young as 18 months. Migraines usually strike in the 20s and 30s, during peak performance.

If your headaches affect your lifestyle, you should seek treatment.

Many diseases and disorders affecting other parts of the body can also cause headaches.
Self-Care:

• Place a cold or warm washcloth over the pain.
• Avoid things that seem to bring on headaches.
• Rest in a quiet dark room with your eyes closed.
• Don't grind your teeth.

Through medication, non-medicated means or a combination of the two, 95 percent of all migraines can be managed. Consult with your health care provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

MCG HealthCare is the health system of the Medical College of Georgia and is comprised of MCG Health, Inc. and the clinical services offered by the faculty of the School of Medicine and the members of the Physicians Practice Group. MCG Health, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation operating the MCG Hospitals and Clinics, Children's Medical Center, the Georgia Radiation Therapy Center and related clinical facilities and services. MCG Health, Inc. was formed to support the research and education mission of the Medical College of Georgia and to build the economic growth of the CSRA, the state of Georgia and the Southeast by offering the highest level of primary and specialty health care.

For more information, contact:
Steven Padgett
Media Relations Manager
MCG Health, Inc.
(706) 721-9566