Which types of headaches are contagious?
Generally, contagious headaches are mostly caused by reasons such as viral colds, epidemic parotitis (mumps), herpes zoster (shingles), epidemic encephalitis B, and tuberculous meningitis. If related symptoms appear, timely medical consultation and treatment are recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Viral Cold
After entering the body through droplet transmission, viruses can cause upper respiratory tract infections. Inflammatory stimulation of head blood vessels and nerves leads to headaches. Sufficient rest and hydration are necessary during the illness. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as ribavirin granules, oseltamivir phosphate capsules, and compound paracetamol tablets may be used for treatment.
The mumps virus mainly spreads via droplets. After infection, the virus attacks the parotid gland and surrounding tissues, causing inflammation, with pain radiating to the head and resulting in headache. Patients should be isolated and rest adequately, while maintaining good oral hygiene. Under medical advice, medications such as ribavirin injection, Qingkailing granules, and paracetamol tablets can be used to relieve symptoms.
3. Herpes Zoster (Shingles)
The varicella-zoster virus lies dormant in the body and becomes activated when immunity decreases, traveling along nerves to cause rashes and severe nerve pain. Headaches occur when nerves in the head are affected. Under medical guidance, antiviral medications such as acyclovir tablets, valacyclovir tablets, and famciclovir capsules can be taken, along with ibuprofen sustained-release capsules to relieve pain.
4. Epidemic Encephalitis B
The Japanese encephalitis virus is transmitted through mosquito bites and invades the central nervous system, causing inflammation of brain tissue, increased intracranial pressure, and resulting headaches. Hospitalization is required. Under medical instructions, mannitol injection may be used to reduce intracranial pressure, along with antiviral drugs such as ribavirin injection and ganciclovir injection.
5. Tuberculous Meningitis
Mycobacterium tuberculosis spreads through the respiratory tract and then disseminates via the bloodstream to the meninges, causing inflammation leading to meningeal irritation signs and elevated intracranial pressure, which results in headaches. Under a doctor's guidance, anti-tuberculosis drugs such as isoniazid tablets, rifampicin capsules, and pyrazinamide tablets should be used in combination. When necessary, ventricular puncture and drainage may be performed to reduce intracranial pressure.
In daily life, attention should be paid to personal hygiene, frequent handwashing, and avoiding crowded places. Strengthen physical exercise to enhance immunity; dress appropriately according to weather changes to prevent colds; and receive scheduled vaccinations on time to reduce infection risks.
