The Health Biz

For an updated version of causes of headaches and more information about headache types visit relieve headache

Although medical science cannot pinpoint the exact cause of headaches in a patient, some of the most common causes can typically be blamed in the majority of cases.  Headaches are broken down into three basic categories.  A primary headache occurs to millions on a daily basis.  Primary headaches are what the majority of headaches can be diagnosed as, and are almost never life threatening.  Despite this frequency of occurence and a lack of life threatening danger, a primary headache can be very painful.  Cluster headaches are a much rarer and far more painful variety, that although not life threatening, can cause debilitating pain.  Secondary headaches are caused by a structural or chemical problem in the brain.

It is believed that over 90% of primary headaches, which most people experience, can be blamed on tension.  The muscles that surround the skull sometimes contract, putting too much pressure on the head.  This can cause a severe amount of pain.  Although the reasons for skull muscle contraction are difficult to ascertain, it is commonly seen as a result of emotional or physical stress.  Significant emotional stress usually leads to cranial pressure, and therefore a tension related headache.  Prolonged physical stress, such as hard manual labor that is engaged in for several hours, can also result in headaches caused by tension.

Cluster headaches happen less frequently, and typically only occur in a small portion of the population.  Patients typically see cluster headaches only in small time frames, thus the name “cluster” headache.  This grouping pattern makes treatment difficult.  When a cluster headache occurs, severe and debilitating pain usually follows.  Water running from the eyes and nose are common with cluster headaches.  Treatment should be undertaken as soon as possible to bring the pain under control.

Secondary headaches usually represent a more serious issue.  This occurs on a far rarer basis than primary headaches.  A secondary headache can signify a deeper neurological issue at work.  Headaches that occur on a chronic basis should be cause for a check with the doctor.  Secondary headaches can be quite painful, and may also be accompanied by other symptoms, such as sensory phenomenon.

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