Why do I frequently have headaches when I have been working a lot?

Headaches commonly affect adults and children. Most headaches are not serious and may accompany other slight illnesses like colds and sore throats.

There are three main types of non-serious headaches. The most common is a tension headache often brought on with stress and often felt in the neck and base of the skull. Cluster headaches are another type of common headache of unknown cause. They are usually not serious but come on suddenly in clusters /cycles causing severe pain on one side of the head. There is no cure but medication can reduce the pain and duration.

Migraines are another common painful headache often associated with vomiting, sensitivity to noise, smell and light. Migraines commonly have throbbing pain to one side of the head lasting for several days and can be debilitating. Sometimes visual disturbance called an aura happens before the headache starts. Migraine headaches tend to repeat as often as several times a month. This kind of headache can be treated with medications both to prevent the headache from starting and to treat the pain. The type of headache you have determines what treatment will work best for you. For example a stress headache may be relieved by reducing stress and using relaxation techniques.

Some common causes of headaches include alcohol, caffeine, or drugs/medications. Withdrawal of these substances may also result in headaches. Sneezing, coughing, fever and dehydration, sinus problems, dental problems , cold food and drink, high altitude, exposure to smoke or chemicals, premenstrual syndrome, and muscle strain may lead to headaches. There are many other causes of headaches.

Although not common, headaches may be a sign of a more serious illness. Vomiting, dizziness, changes in vision, may be present. Head injuries, brain tumors, stroke, and aneurysms can all be accompanied by a new or worsening headache. Infections of the brain and spinal cord like meningitis can cause headaches.
Some health problems such as autoimmune disorders, fibromyalgia, high blood pressure, kidney disease, and glaucoma, result in headaches. If you have a health condition and are experiencing new or worsening headaches, you should contact you doctor.

For more information about headaches, or for available programs and services, contact Health Link Alberta where nurses are available 24-7 to provide health advice and information. Call 1-866-408-LINK (5465) or 780-408-LINK (Edmonton area) or 403-943-LINK (Calgary area).