Risk Factors for Headache
A risk factor is something that raises the chances of getting a
health problem. A person can get headaches with or without the ones listed below. The
chances of getting headaches are greater in people who have many.
Risk Factors for Tension Headache
Lifestyle Factors
Stress, tiredness, or anger can cause tension headaches.
Not getting enough sleep may also lead to headaches.
Health Problems
Depression and
anxiety are two health problems that
have been linked to tension headaches.
Risk Factors for Migraine
Migraines often start in late childhood. They are most common
in people who are 45 to 65 years of age. They are also more common in women and in
people who have other family members who have had this problem. Other things that may
raise the risk are:
Lifestyle Factors
Triggers can differ in each person. Some are:
- Missed meals or fasting
- Certain foods and drinks
- Sleep problems
- Stress
- Alcohol
Certain foods and drinks can trigger headaches in some
people. They may need to be avoided.
Health Problems
Depression and
anxiety are two health problems that
have been linked to migraine headaches.
Medications
Some medicines may raise the risk, such as:
- Birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy
- Headache medicine used on a daily or near daily basis
Other
These headaches may be started by blood vessels overreacting to things like:
- Menstruation
- Changes in altitude or weather
- Strong lights
- Perfumes or other strong smells
Risk Factors for Cluster Headache
Cluster headaches often start in people who are 10 to 39 years
of age. They are also more common in men and in people who have other family members
with this problem.
Lifestyle Factors
Cluster headaches seem to happen more often in
people whosmoke.
Health Problems
Depression and
anxiety are two health problems that
have been linked to cluster headaches.
Risk Factors for Sinus Headache
Health Problems
Some health problems cause mucus and swelling in the
tissues lining the nose passages. This can cause pain and pressure. Health
problems that raise the risk are:
References
Cluster headache. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
https://www.dynamed.com/condition/cluster-headache. Accessed March 9, 2022.
Headache information page. National Institute of
Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at:
https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Headache-Information-Page. Accessed
March 9, 2022.
Migraine in adults. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
https://www.dynamed.com/condition/migraine-in-adults. Accessed March 9, 2022.
Tension-type headache. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available
at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/tension-type-headache. Accessed March 9, 2022.