Although medical science cannot pinpoint the exact cause of headaches in a patient, some of the most common causes are related to everyday stress. Headaches are broken down in the medical community into a few categories that assist in diagnosis. A primary headache occurs to millions on a daily basis. Primary headaches constitute the vast majority of headaches, and are almost never life threatening. Despite this frequency of occurence and a lack of life threatening danger, the primary headache can be very uncomfortable. Cluster headaches are a far more serious form of headache, that although not life threatening, can bring about serious pain. Secondary headaches are caused by a structural or chemical problem in the brain.
Most primary headaches are related to tension. The muscles that surround the skull sometimes contract, putting too much pressure on the head. This can be a significant source of pain. Although the reasons behind the contraction of cranial muscles are unknown, it is commonly seen as a result of emotional or physical stress. Significant emotional stress typically results in a contraction of the muscles, and therefore a tension related headache. Prolonged physical stress, such as extended manual labor, is also known to cause tension headaches.
Cluster headaches are a far rare occurence, 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 can make prevention and treatment difficult. When a cluster headache occurs, it can be accompanied by severe pain that focuses behind the eyes. Water running from the eyes and nose are common with cluster headaches. A cluster headache should be treated as soon as possible.
Secondary headaches occur as a symptom of a more serious problem. This occurs on a far rarer basis than primary headaches. A secondary headache can be indicative of internal bleeding in the brain, a tumor, or a malfunction of the brain. 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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