Read on to learn more about the varying types of headaches, what causes them, and how you can find relief at home.
Types
According to the International Headache Society, there are more than 150 types of headaches. Headaches fall into one of two categories—primary or secondary headaches.
A primary headache is a headache that isn’t the result of a medical condition. Some examples include:
Migraine Cluster headache Tension headache
A secondary headache are headaches that are associated with other conditions, including:
Injury to the head Hypertension Infection Sinus congestion
Headaches may vary based on factors like cause, frequency, and location.
Migraine
A migraine typically appears on one side of the head or as a feeling of pressure behind one eye. The pain may be moderate to severe and can cause a throbbing or pulsating sensation. The pain may also worsen with usual physical activity.
Symptoms of a migraine headache include:
NauseaVomitingDiarrheaFatigueWorsening of symptoms around light or noiseRunny noseStuffy nosePain that begins at night and wakes you from sleep
Tension Headache
After a migraine, a tension headache is the most common form of headache.
Tensions headaches may also be referred to as “hatband” headaches because the pain of a tension headache feels as though you are wearing a hat that is too tight. This causes pain around the forehead, temples, and the back of the head.
A tension headache can cause pain on both sides of the head. The pain may feel like a deep tightening pain that is mild to moderate in intensity, although these headaches typically do not cause throbbing or pulsing.
Cluster Headache
Compared to a migraine, a cluster headache lasts for a relatively short amount of time. Cluster headaches usually last between 20 minutes to two hours.
A cluster headache is located on one side of the head, face, or neck and does not switch sides. The pain may become more intense very quickly, often within the first five to 10 minutes. A cluster headache may also worsen when lying down.
Cluster headaches may happen several times a day for multiple days or weeks at a time before disappearing again.
A cluster headache may be accompanied by other symptoms, including:
Runny or stuffy noseDroopy eyelidsSwollen eyelidsWatery eyesSweating on face or forehead
They are regarded as some of the most painful forms of headaches.
Sinus Headache
A sinus headache commonly affects the area around the eyes, the bridge of the nose, the cheekbones, and forehead.
The pain of a sinus headache is often described as deep and constant. Sudden movements, exercise, and leaning over can make sinus headaches feel worse as these activities increase the pressure on the sinuses.
A sinus headache may be accompanied by other symptoms, including:
Runny noseStuffy noseFeeling fullness in the earsPlugged earsSwollen facePuffy faceIncreased mucus in the nasal cavity
How to Get Rid of a Headache
Most headaches will go away with over the counter medications. Migraine and cluster medications will require specific medication to be treated effectively.
At-Home Remedies
There are some steps that you can take at home to manage headaches and reduce their frequency and intensity, including:
Identify and avoid known triggers like certain foods or lack of sleep Exercise regularly Make adjustments to your diet to incorporate appropriate nutrients Manage stress levels Rest in a dark and quiet environment Maintain a good posture Drink enough water Use a cold or hot compress Get a massage to relieve tension
When to See a Doctor
Headaches are common and most people will experience them in their lifetime. Typically, headaches do not cause debilitating pain and can be managed with over-the-counter medication.
However, if you get frequent headaches or your headaches stop you from performing everyday activities, you should discuss the issue with a healthcare professional.
There are also times when a headache can be an indication of something more serious. You should contact a medical professional if you have a severe headache accompanied with other symptoms, such as:
NauseaFeverVomitingStiff neckConvulsionsMuscle weaknessConfusionShortness of breathConfusionSlurred speechPain in the eyePain in the earNumbness
Additional circumstances in which your headache should be investigated by a healthcare provider include:
Headaches that come on suddenlyA headache that worsens over a few weeksUnusual visual symptoms that last longer than an hour and are accompanied by muscle weaknessHeadaches that occur in the morning and don’t go away
A Word From Verywell
Headaches are common and can be caused by a variety of factors. The pain from a headache may range from dull to sharp and can affect different areas on the head and face. If you are experiencing a headache, it will likely subside over time and can be alleviated with the help of pain-relieving medications. If your headaches are persistent, a healthcare professional will be able to help you identify what type of headache you’re experiencing and advise the best treatment options.
