Who is At Risk of Suffering from Headaches?
It's difficult to identify risk groups for headache pain. This is due to the fact that researchers are still trying to pinpoint specific causes for different types of headaches. They do, however, have many theories for the causes of tension, cluster, and migraine headaches.
Various types of muscle tension are believed to be the main cause of tension headaches. Several different factors contribute to muscle tension that can bring about this type of headache.
For example, a tension headache can be caused by something as simple as holding a phone between the ear and shoulder for an extended period of time. Inflammation is caused by the unnatural flexing of these muscles. A headache is the result of constricted blood flow and stretched fascia tendons.
Teeth clenching and grinding are also major causes of tension headaches. TMJ is related to this problem. This is a condition that involves irritation of the temporomandibular joint that connects the jaw to the skull. Many times this is an involuntary action that happens while a person is asleep.
But more subtle and surprising risk factors are at work as well.
Research has shown that family history is a major factor in headaches of all kinds. This is especially true of migraine headaches. Family history also plays a role in 40% of those who suffer from tension headaches.
Various types of depression have also been linked to the onset of headaches. The specifics are still unknown, but 70% of those who experience daily headaches also suffer from some type of depression. It's still largely unknown whether depression causes the headaches or the other way around. Another risk group is those who suffer from anemia, especially women.
Headaches are also common for those who suffer from insomnia and sleep apnea. Although they are both associated with headaches, there may be existing conditions that contribute to it as well. Many times anxiety is also related to both of these conditions.
Gender also plays a role in the type and frequency of various headaches. Migraines and tension headaches are more common to women than men. Migraines affect around 17% of women and 6% of men. On the other hand, cluster headaches are more commonly found in men. These are headaches that last for a period of time and then go away for a while.
Again, it's unclear why some people are more at risk than others. With as many women in the workplace as men, lifestyle is less of a factor than once believed.
There are, however certain lifestyle choices that are thought to be causes for both men and women. Skipping meals and drinking excess alcohol can lead to headaches in both sexes. Other factors, such as stress and even excess exercise are also thought to be responsible for headaches.
Some of these factors can be controlled, but others cannot. Things such as family history and gender cannot be controlled, but there are treatment options that can lessen the affects. The first step is to see your doctor for a proper diagnosis. Then you can determine what type of treatment is appropriate, whether it's lifestyle related or otherwise.
Introduction to Headaches
Common Headache Symptoms
Causes of Headaches
Diagnosing Headaches
Headaches Guide and Info
Cluster Headaches Symptoms, Causes and Treatments
Seeking Medical Advice for Headaches
Pregnancy Headaches Causes, Symptoms and Treatments
Tension Headaches Causes, Symptoms and Treatments
Migraine Symptoms, Causes and Treatments
Sinus Headaches Causes and Treatments
Headaches Treatment and Medication
Brand Name vs Generic Medication – Headache Treatments
Headaches Treatment - Surgery vs Drugs
Aspirin - Headache Medication and Treatment
Acetaminophen – Headache Medication and Treatment
Ibuprofen Headache Medication and Treatment
Ergots and Midrin for Migraines Treatment
How to Control Headaches Symptoms
Triptans Migraines Treatment and Medication
Headaches Preventive Medications and Treatments
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