The medical community has set out a well defined categorization of headaches. The first category, that of the primary headache, is experienced on a daily basis by millions all the time. The primary headache occurs more frequently than any other kind of headache. The cluster headache category is defined as a far more painful variety of headache that occurs to a much smaller segment of the population. Cluster headaches earn their name from the random grouping of attacks that they present with. Patients can go pain free for years before suddenly suffering a rash of attacks. Secondary headaches are classified as headaches that occur because of an underlying issue in the brain. Cluster headaches and secondary headaches are far rarer than primary headaches.
The common stress headache falls into the primary category. Although not at all rare or life threatening, the stress headache can become an impediment to the enjoyment of daily life. In some cases, the common stress headache can be very painful. It is important that these cases be resolved as any other medical problem should be. The first step in headache treatment is understanding the cause of the problem. Stress headache is believed to actually result from a contraction of the muscles surrounding the skull. The added pressure from this contraction introduces a painful and uncomfortable sensation. The problem has nothing to do with any neurological issue, but rather with the tightness around the skull.
The tightening of the muscles around the skull is typically explained as a feeling of band-like tightness around the forehead. This is the first sign of stress headache, and should be when sufferers take preventive measures. To actually prevent stress headache more effectively, the root problem should be investigated. If stress headache occurs seemingly on a schedule, it can be assumed that daily emotional or physical stress is to blame. Stress management can be an important component of any treatment. Changes should be made to lifestyle choices that trigger stress headache, or manage them more effectively, and stress headache may be reduced. If pain persists in a chronic fashion, this may be a sign of another, more complex issue that should be treated by a specialist.
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