Constant headaches can be triggered by a variety of reasons. Sometimes it's easy to find the reason by making lifestyle changes; other times, the reasons may be difficult to uncover. It may take lots of trial and error before discovering the cause. Although headaches can usually be reduced or eliminated through pain relievers or relaxation, people who have constant headaches should see a doctor to find the cause.
Over-Medication
People who take too much medication can suffer from frequent headaches. Taking prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication more than three days a week can cause the rebound effect of headaches, explains the Mayo Clinic. Sometimes pain medication can mask the underlying problem that's causing the headaches, according to Health911.com.
Grinding Teeth
Grinding the teeth at night, also called bruxism, or clenching the jaw during the day can put strains on bones and muscles in the jaw, leading to headaches. Plastic mouthpieces prescribed by a dentist can reduce grinding and clenching.
Stress
Stress and anxiety can cause muscles in the neck and upper body to become tense, resulting in chronic headaches. Stressful situations may affect the way the head is held or cause the neck to stiffen while working or driving. Straining the neck or head can cut off the blood supply to the brain, according to Health911.com. Stress and anxiety can affect sleeping patterns. Getting too little or too much sleep can lead to headaches.
Toxins
Mold and mildew can cause headaches. Removing mold and mildew from damp areas may clear up symptoms for people suffering from constant headaches. However, some cleaning products can also produce effects that cause headaches. Mercury, lead and other heavy metals can be toxic and lead to headaches. Blood tests can detect abnormal levels of metals.
Magnesium Deficiency
A deficiency of magnesium may cause changes in brain chemistry that lead to migraines or headaches, according to Health911.com. Magnesium helps blood flow by relaxing muscles surrounding the veins and arteries. Stress, caffeine, alcohol, sugar, carbonated drinks, tobacco and some medicines can deplete magnesium in the body. Many migraine sufferers have low magnesium and high calcium levels, which are also associated with chronic headaches, Health911.com points out.
Underlying Disorders
Constant headaches can signal more serious underlying problems. Inflammation in the blood vessels can cause headaches and be a sign of stroke, notes the Mayo Clinic. Infections, such as meningitis, may cause frequent headaches. Constant headaches can also indicate a brain tumor or occur following trauma to the brain.
