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-type headaches are often brought on by
stress, overexertion, loud noise, and other external factors. The
typical tension-type headache is described as a tightening around
the head and neck, and an accompanying dull ache.
Migraines are intense throbbing headaches
occurring on one or both sides of the head. The pain is accompanied
by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, and
aversion to light, sound, and movement. Migraines are often
triggered by food items, such as red wine, chocolate, and aged
cheeses. For women, a hormonal connection is likely, since headaches
occur at specific points in the menstrual cycle, with use of oral
contraceptives, or the use of hormone replacement therapy after
menopause.
Cluster headaches cause excruciating pain. The
severe, stabbing pain centers around one eye, and eye tearing and
nasal congestion occur on the same side. The headache lasts from 15
minutes to four hours and may recur several times in a day. Heavy
smokers are more likely to suffer cluster headaches, which are also
associated with alcohol consumption.
