Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Cause Of Headaches - Why Does it Hurt so Badly?

By Chad Moussette

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 is something almost all people are familiar with.

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 cause debilitating 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 are triggered to contract, causing a painful amount of cranial pressure. 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 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 usually represent a more serious issue. This is much rarer 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. - 15438

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