The medical community has identified a set of well defined headache categories. The first category, that of the primary headache, is experienced on a daily basis by millions all the time. The primary headache is by far the most common kind of headache, and is by definition not life threatening, nor indicative of any kind of neurological problem. 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 without an attack for years at a time before suddenly experiencing a rash of cluster headaches. Secondary headaches are classified as headaches that occur because of an underlying issue in the brain. Cluster headaches and secondary headaches occur on a much less frequent basis than primary headaches.
The common stress headache fits into the primary headache category. Although not at all rare or life threatening, the stress headache can cause serious pain that is very discomforting. In some cases, the common stress headache can become quite uncomfortable. It is important that these cases be resolved as any other medical problem should be. The first step in treatment is knowing the source of the issue. 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 can usually be identified as a band like feeling just above the eyes. This is the first sign of stress headache, and can be a good time to administer preventive measures like a dosage of Ibuprofen or Aleve. To actually prevent stress headache more effectively, the underlying causes should be examined. 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 a big part of reducing stress headache. 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.
Learn more about headaches and treatments here Sinus Headache
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