Headaches Causes.

Headaches have a wide variety of causes, ranging from eyestrain to inflammation of the sinus cavities to life-threatening conditions such as encephalitis, , and cerebral aneurysms. When the headache occurs in conjunction with a head injury the cause is usually quite evident; however, many causes of headaches are more elusive.

The most common type of headache is a tension headache. Some people experience headaches when they are hungry or dehydrated. Traditional theories about headaches link tension-type headaches to muscle contraction, and migraine and cluster headaches to blood vessel dilation (swelling). Pain-sensitive structures in the head include blood vessel walls, membranous coverings of the brain, and scalp and neck muscles. Brain tissue itself has no sensitivity to pain.

Therefore, headaches may result from contraction of the muscles of the scalp, face or neck; dilation of the blood vessels in the head; or brain swelling that stretches the brain's coverings. Involvement of specific nerves of the face and head may also cause characteristic headaches. Sinus inflammation is a common cause of headache. Keeping a headache diary may help link headaches to stressful occurrences, menstrual phases, food triggers, or medication.

Tension headaches are due to contraction (tightness) of the muscles in your shoulders, neck, scalp, and jaw. They are often related to , depression, or anxiety. Overworking, not getting enough sleep, missing meals, and using alcohol or street can make you more susceptible to headaches. Foods that can trigger a headache include chocolate, cheese, and monosodium glutamate (MSG), a flavor enhancer. People who drink caffeine can have headaches when they don't get their usual daily amount.

Other common reasons lead to a tension headache include performing an activity that causes you to hold your head in one position for a long time (like using a computer, microscope, or typewriter), sleeping in a cold room or an abnormal position, overexerting yourself, clenching your jaw or grinding your .

Tension headaches tend to be on both sides of your head. They often start at the back of your head and spread forward. The pain may feel dull or squeezing, even like a tight band or vice around your head. The muscle tension often begins in your shoulders, neck, or jaw before spreading to your head.

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