Persistent Headache

Most of us have suffered from headaches at some point or the other. Pain in the head can be caused due to several reasons. Children can also be affected by this condition. Carrying heavy school bags can lead to stress on the neck and lead to bad posture. It can also lead to spine displacement and cause pain in the head. Cold, flu, sinus infections, change in weather, head injuries, stress and eye strain could also cause headaches in children. At times, a persistent headache could be a symptom of a serious medical condition. It can be very debilitating and can make life very difficult, therefore, children as well as adults who often suffer from this condition must get themselves medically examined.

Causes of Persistent Headaches

Migraine
If you have been suffering from pain on one side of the head, you might be suffering from migraine. Migraine is a neurological condition which manifests itself in the form of headaches. It is a very debilitating condition as the pain could go on for hours or even days. The patient's senses become extremely sensitive during a migraine attack. Migraines could be triggered off by certain environmental factors, stress or food. It is also believed that hormonal changes or a chemical imbalance in the brain might also cause a migraine attack.

Tension Headaches
This condition is characterized by 'hatband' tightness around the head. One may feel as if there is 'a weight on the top of the head'. One's head, neck and shoulder region might become stiff. Stress and lack of sleep can cause headaches.

Sinusitis
Do you experience a dull throbbing pain on top of your head and face? This might be caused due to inflamed sinuses. Sinuses are hollow spaces located around the eyes, cheeks and nose. These are lined with mucus membranes. When these membranes become swollen and inflamed, the mucus cannot get drained and this leads to infections. Those who suffer from sinus infections may suffer from headaches. Pain may worsen when the patient tries to bend forward or lie down.

Brain Injury
If you have had a fall or an accident or received a blow to the head, you might experience headaches. Another condition called hydrocephalus might be responsible for causing pain or discomfort in the head. This is a medical condition in which the brain begins to swell as a result of increased intracranial pressure. Those who suffer from brain tumor or meningitis may get headaches.

Hemicrania Continua
Hemicrania continua causes pain on only one side of your head. The pain always occurs on that side only. These can be very discomforting and have migraine-like symptoms. The patient might suffer from nasal congestion also. Another type is the new daily persistent headache which can affect both sides of the head.

Treatment

If you have been suffering from frequent headaches, you must consult a doctor soon. It is very important to determine the underlying cause of pain in head. Since stress may be a contributory factor, you must try to stay relaxed. You can try alternative healing therapies such as yoga, meditation, acupuncture or aromatherapy to tackle stress. Making some lifestyle changes might also help. Eye strain must be avoided as that can also worsen the problem. If your work requires you to sit in front of the computer for long stretches, you must take breaks.

Constant or frequent headaches could be caused due to a wide range of reasons. If you often suffer from pain, it would be best to seek medical help.