Migraines: In 2010, researchers discovered the first-known genetic determinant of migraine headaches. A variation in the segment of DNA that controls the brain chemical glutamate contributes to a higher risk of migraine headaches. As nearly 30 million Americans live with regular migraine headaches, a further understanding of how the build up of glutamate causes headaches may one day help in the treatment of this condition. However, much more testing and research will be required before the relationship of glutamate and migraine is clear. Approximately 90 percent of migraine headache sufferers can trace migraines in their family history.
Tension-type headaches: Risk factors for tension-type headaches include being a woman, as it's been found that 90 percent of women and 70 percent of men will experience a tension-type headache at some point. Also, the occurrence of tension-type headaches tend to peak during middle age. Smoking and little physical exercise are common factors for tension-type headache patients.
Cluster headaches: The incidence of cluster headaches has been shown to be affected by age and gender. Men are at higher risk of experiencing a cluster headache, and sufferers of cluster headaches commonly develop their first cluster headache during their 20's. Smoking and alcohol use are also common factors in those suffering from cluster headaches. A family history of cluster headaches is common among those who experience them.
Generally, the following groups are at risk of increased incidence of headaches:
- Obese
- Smokers
- Excessive exercisers
- Those who don't get enough exercise
- Excessive alcohol drinkers
- Highly stressed individuals