Virtually everyone has had an experience with a headache, but some people have chronic headaches that occur daily or that never go away. Because this type of headache occurs so frequently, it can be debilitating to those who suffer with it and can affect virtually every aspect of life. These patients can become discouraged and despondent as they search for a cure. As much as 5 percent of the population may have chronic daily headaches, according to The National Headache Foundation.
Mechanical Dysfunction
Many people experience tension-type headaches that are caused by mechanical dysfunction in the cervical spine and the surrounding soft tissues. Muscles that extend through the neck up into the head can become tight and restricted over long periods of poor posture. Mechanical dysfuntion may also occur through soft tissue injuries, such as those that may occur in an automobile accident or sports injury. The joints of the spine can also become restricted, leading to muscle spasm, localized and radiating pain and headaches. Many of these types of mechanical problems can be resolved with diligent stretching and exercise, according to MedlinePlus.
Meningitis
Infections in the eyes, ears, sinuses, brain and other local structures can often cause or be related to headaches. Meningitis is an infection of the coverings of the brain and can be caused by bacteria, fungus or viruses. Most headaches caused by infection will resolve when the infection is successfully treated. According to the International Headache Society, bacterial meningitis can cause the onset of chronic headaches that do not resolve after the meningitis has been treated appropriately.
Tumor
Another possible cause of recurring and chronic headaches is a brain tumor. Tumors are a collection of abnormal cells that have grown out of control in the brain. A brain tumor takes up space within the skull and can put pressure on the brain, shift the brain or push it against the skull, or even invade the brain tissue, according to The National Brain Tumor Association. Headaches are the most common symptom of a brain tumor. Headaches that are worse in the morning, associated with nausea and vomiting or accompanied by weakness, numbness or vision problems can be signs of a brain tumor.
Medication
Some medications can have a side effect of headache, especially if they increase blood pressure or intracranial pressure. According to MayoClinic.com, many people who have frequent chronic headaches are experiencing a rebound effect, which is caused by taking pain medication too frequently. Taking pain medicine, even over-the-counter analgesics, more than three days a week increases the risk of developing rebound headaches.
