The blood vessels in the brain are interlaced with many nerves, and it is in these nerves that headache pain originates.
The brain tissues itself and most of the brain covering are incapable of feeling pain, but the blood-vessel nerves are especially sensitive to changes of pressure and to abnormal pressure within the skull.
Tension headaches, are the commonest kind of headaches. They occur without any other symptoms, and are due to conscious or unconscious emotional stress. They are usually temporary and disappear if one or two tablets of aspirin are taken. Stronger medication should be avoided except under a doctor's order.
Migraine headaches, Like tension headaches, cannot be traced to any general bodily disorder. They are much more severe and disabling than ordinary tension headaches. There is intense, throbbing pain in the front and top part of the head, usually on one side only. There may also be flickering vision, nausea, and vomiting. It is not known why migraine headaches occur repeatedly in some persons, or why some families to be especially susceptible to them.
Relaxation in a warm bath followed by quiet bed rest may help to relieve a migraine headache. Aspirin is not effective in soothing the pain. It is advisable to consult a doctor, who may prescribe a more potent pain-killer (ANALGESIC). Pentobarbital-a BARBITURATE- and certain other prescription medicines, such as Cafergot, are usually helpful.
Other Types of Headaches, Sometimes the origin of a headache can be traced to other parts of the body. Almost any disease may be accompanied b a headache. Such headaches can only be treated effectively by getting at the cause. A doctor should be consulted without delay for a headache that will not go away or one accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, and disturbed vision.