There are a number of medical reasons as to why headaches are important. First of all, they are a tell tale sign to the body that something is not right. It may be as simple as needing a glass or two of water, or something to eat. Then again, it could be a sign of something more serious - such as a brain hemorrhage. In this article, we will take a look at the main causes of headache - on all points of the scale. By the end, we should all have a good idea of the reasons why headaches should not just be ignored - but instead used as a sign and opportunity to fix an underlying problem.
We begin of course with the less dangerous reasons for headaches, and will then work our way up the scale to ultimately find the scenario where a headache would signal the worst possible problem.
Interestingly, it is actually completely normal to have a headache every once in a while. People who do not ever have headaches are either very good at managing their bodies, or alternatively they are very tolerant to pain, and simply cannot feel a mild headache at all.
Most of the time, and we stress that this is about 90 percent of the time, a headache is simply there to tell you that it is time to have a drink or a bite to eat. When the body is not supplied with enough water for its liking, it will begin to tense muscles in the head, and hence this feels like we have a headache, as the pain registers with our central nervous system.
The solution to this problem is very simple. Have a glass of water, and you will feel better within a half hour.
A small percentage of the time a headache will result from something which is much more life threatening or dangerous. In particular, problems with the brain will set off a headache, such as a hemorrhage, or giant cell arteritis.
Usually you will be able to tell the difference between this type of headache, and a food / drink related one, because of the severity. If you have a sudden headache, which is excruciatingly painful - it is best to see your doctor as soon as possible.
© Headache Medication - 2009.