Headache

Headache, common ailment and manifestation of many diseases and disorders involving the brain, eyes, nose, throat, teeth, and ears. Most headaches seem to arise from pressure upon or displacement of the blood vessels of the brain. The major covering of the brain (the dura mater) also registers pain. Other headaches derive from the vessels outside the skull, such as the scalp and neck muscles. Infrequent headaches can usually be related to acute causes, such as fatigue, fever, or the drinking of alcohol. The cause of chronic or recurrent headache is often difficult to diagnose.