The pain can be confined to a small area or it can cover the entire head. Some headaches are preceded by auras, which are sensations that things are not quite right. These auras can involve unusual sounds, smells or visions. Most headaches are benign, which means they are self-limited and not likely to be serious. However, some headaches are serious and require extensive evaluation.
Headaches have a wide variety of causes.
They can also be caused by conversion disorders , which are psychological problems that cause symptoms similar to those accompanying an actual physical condition. Cranial neuralgias involve severe pains in or about the face or scalp, and are caused by abnormalities of the trigeminal or glossopharyngeal nerves. The trigeminal nerve controls sensation in the face, cheek, and jaw. The glossopharyngeal nerve controls the throat and vocal cords. Many causes of headaches are not preventable.