To everyone except those who have headaches, the symptoms are invisible. It’s probably why we know so little about the pain they cause. Yet the problems are real. We need to know more about headaches and migraines so people don’t have to suffer in silence.

Causes vary from dietary triggers to drug reactions. Additional symptoms, such as loss of vision, uncontrolled vomiting and loss of consciousness, can accompany migraines and headaches and need to be addressed immediately.

Sometimes people don’t seek help because they assume nothing out of the ordinary is wrong. However, if your head hurts, talk to your doctor and find out how many new treatments are available. You may want to keep a headache diary to narrow down what triggers your pain. Learn biofeedback techniques to control functions like heart rate, blood pressure, muscle tension and skin temperature.

The National Migraine and Headache Foundation (NHF) designated June to raise awareness of this common malady. If you, or anyone you know has problems, go to www.headaches.org to learn how many options are available to ease the pain.