MAIN Health Pain Headaches

A headache is one of the most common types of localized pain.

The causes of common headaches are usually something fairly innocuous and may be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers.

However, if pain is prolonged or severe, a headache may also be a symptom of a more serious condition.

Commonly, there are many different reasons one might suffer a headache, but the most typical causes are low blood sugar levels, lack of sleep or overexertion, dehydration, tension or stress.

Eye strain, or an inflammation of the nasal passages (usually as the result of allergies or having contracted the flu) are other typical ways that common headaches arise. Fluctuating hormone levels that women experience as a result of menstruation is another cause and a major reason why more women experience headaches than men.

Headache as a serious symptom

Much less common causes of headaches are very high blood pressure, a head injury, brain tumor, or a condition such as meningitis which causes dangerous brain inflammation.

Chronic, debilitating pain such as that experienced by migraine sufferers usually requires special treatment. Also, see a doctor immediately if you experience a sudden, severe headache or head pain accompanied by other symptoms like a stiff neck, strong fever or convulsions. Similarly, headaches associated with acute eye pain or earaches may also be a sign of something more serious.

More about headache pain relief around the Web:

Headache - Symptoms & Signs - MedicineNet guide with a brief overview discussing various types of headaches with details on their causes, related conditions associated with headache, with more on common pain relievers and prescription medicines.

MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia - Headache - Good fact sheet explaining common causes, tips on exercise and home care, advice on when to see a doctor, with related resources and illustrations.

Natural Medicine - Headache - Discussion on food allergies as cause of chronic headache, with tips on removing foods from the diet to bring about relief, plus more on acupressure, chiropractic procedures, and acupuncture cures.

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also see in Pain -> Alternative therapy | Back pain | Burns | Chest pain

Foot pain | Earaches | Neck pain | Toothaches | Sore Throat