How To Determine The Cause of Your Headache
Posted by admin on Friday Feb 13, 2009 Under Health and FitnessAlthough medical science cannot pinpoint the exact cause of headaches in a patient, some of the most common cause of headaches are related to everyday stress. Headaches are broken down into three basic categories. A primary headache is something almost all people are familiar with. 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, the primary headache can be very uncomfortable. Cluster headaches are a much rarer and far more painful variety, that although not life threatening, can bring about serious 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 be a significant source 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 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 happen less frequently, and typically only occur in a small portion of the population. Sufferers usually experience cluster headaches only for a small window of time, 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. A cluster headache should be treated as soon as possible.
Secondary headaches occur as a symptom of a more serious problem. This is much rarer than primary headaches. The cause of a 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 sometimes present with severe pain and sensory issues.

February 17th, 2009 at 11:24 am
Stress & tension are the important factors in causing Headache and other related pains. What is the exact definition for secondary headaches?
Thanks for the information.
Sam