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Although medical science cannot pinpoint the exact cause of headaches in a patient, some of the most common causes can typically be blamed in the majority of cases.  Headaches are broken down in the medical community into a few categories that assist in diagnosis.  A primary headache is something almost all people are familiar with.  Primary headaches constitute the vast majority of headaches, and are almost never life threatening.  Despite this frequency of occurence and a lack of life threatening danger, the primary headache can be very uncomfortable.  Cluster headaches are a far more serious form of headache, that although not life threatening, can cause debilitating pain.  Secondary headaches are caused by a structural or chemical problem in the brain.

It is believed that over 90% of primary headaches, which most people experience, can be blamed on tension.  The muscles that surround the skull sometimes contract, putting too much pressure on the head.  This can cause a severe amount of pain.  Although the reasons behind the contraction of cranial muscles are unknown, it is commonly seen as a result of emotional or physical stress.  Significant emotional stress usually leads to cranial pressure, and therefore a tension related headache.  Prolonged physical stress, such as extended manual labor, is also known to cause tension headaches.

Cluster headaches happen less frequently, and typically only occur in a small portion of the population.  Patients typically see cluster headaches only in small time frames, thus the name “cluster” headache.  This grouping pattern makes treatment difficult.  When a cluster headache occurs, severe and debilitating pain usually follows.  Water running from the eyes and nose are common with cluster headaches.  A cluster headache should be treated as soon as possible.

Secondary headaches occur as a symptom of a more serious problem.  This is much rarer than primary headaches.  A secondary headache can be indicative of internal bleeding in the brain, a tumor, or a malfunction of the brain.  Headaches that occur on a chronic basis should be cause for a check with the doctor.  Secondary headaches sometimes present with severe pain and sensory issues.