There are many types of headaches, but all fit into three basic categories. Most headaches that people get can fall into the category primary headache. Primary headaches afflict millions every day, and are not a serious or life threatening issue. That said, primary headaches can be quite painful on some occasions, or can become a chronic problem. Although this isn’t life threatening, it sometimes presents an obstacle to daily functioning. Fixing these kinds of primary headaches can be crucial to restoring enjoyment of daily life activities. Correcting issues regarding primary headaches can usually be done with the use of over the counter medications.
Cluster type headaches present with a far greater pain level. Although not life threatening in itself, the pain associated with a cluster headache can drive patients to take unreasonable measures. Cluster headaches are known as such because of the groupings they occur in, and can be very hard to predict. This means that treatment over the course of a lifetime is difficult, resulting in attacks that usually cannot be avoided. A cluster headache can disable an individual, so great is the pain. Pain usually centers behind one or both eyes, and presents with visible symptoms like runny and watery eyes and nose. Patients can become overwhelmed with the pain associated with cluster headaches. Treatment of this pain is very important and should be done as soon as possible. Over the counter medications are typically inadequate in these situations.
Secondary headaches are far rarer, and signify an underlying issue. As the name implies, a secondary headache is actually a symptom of another problem. Secondary headaches result from a problem in the brain that may or may not be life threatening. In the most serious of cases, a secondary headache can be a sign of a brain tumor. There are dozens of other possible secondary headache causes. Regular headaches should be a sign to see the doctor.
The vast majority of headaches suffered fit into the primary headache category. What are the causes of headaches? As many as 90% of primary headaches result from the “tension” variety of headache. A tension headache takes place when cranial muscles contract, putting a painful amount of pressure on the head. The pain usually centers around the temples. Relief can usually be found with a variety of over the counter medications.
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