Why Does It Hurt? A Neurologist Explains Everything You Need to Know About the World's Most Common Problem

A leading British neurobiologist has spent many years pondering the mysteries of headaches. The result of her work is an engaging and accessible book about a lifelong medical problem—with some practical advice as well. There’s nothing new about headaches. Since time immemorial, people have suffered under their grip. Hot debates about how to avoid headaches or get rid of them were already raging in medieval Persia, where the most reliable remedy was castor oil. Luckily, we’ve made significant progress in this area. Headaches made Darwin a real recluse, but it also gave him the opportunity to spend more time at home, thinking about the origins of species. Modern people probably won’t see their headaches as a gift, but they truly can tell us a lot. How can you tell what they’re saying? What is the meaning of our pain? Neurobiologist Amanda Ellison talks about pain in the sinuses and about migraines—and whether it’s worth simply taking painkillers while ignoring the causes. “Pain in Your Head” separates facts from speculation, teaches you to control your condition, and helps you develop habits that will protect you from this ailment.