Check out relieve headache to read an updated version of causes of headaches and more information about headache types.

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 in the medical community into a few categories that assist in diagnosis.  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 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 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 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 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.  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 be indicative of internal bleeding in the brain, a tumor, or a malfunction of the brain.  Headaches that occur frequently or on a regular basis should be cause for a check with the doctor.  Secondary headaches sometimes present with severe pain and sensory issues.