A secondary headache is a headache that occurs as a symptom of an underlying condition, rather than being a primary disorder like a migraine or tension headache. Unlike primary headaches, which are standalone medical issues, secondary headaches are triggered by other medical problems, such as infections, head injuries, or vascular disorders. Some common causes of secondary headaches include:
1. Sinus infections (sinusitis)
2. Head trauma or injury
3. Dehydration
4. Medication overuse (rebound headaches)
5. High blood pressure
6. Infections, like meningitis
7. Brain tumors
8. Stroke
9. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
Since secondary headaches are symptoms of an underlying issue, it's crucial to identify and treat the root cause. Persistent or severe headaches that differ from usual headaches, or are accompanied by symptoms such as confusion, vision problems, or difficulty speaking, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out more serious conditions.