If you’re experiencing a headache, it’s important to identify the type in order to determine the cause and the appropriate treatment. There are over 150 different types of headaches, each with their own unique characteristics and causes.
Identifying the type of headache can help narrow down the cause and provide a treatment plan that can help provide relief.
One way to determine what type of headache you’re having is to pay attention to the location of the pain and any other symptoms that accompany it. For example, a tension headache typically causes dull pressure around the temples, neck, and head and can be accompanied by muscle tenderness, fatigue, or neck stiffness.
A migraine, on the other hand, usually causes a throbbing pain and can include additional symptoms such as sensitivity to light or nausea.
If you suspect your headache could be a result of a medical condition, you should always speak to a doctor. In some cases, your headache may be the result of an underlying medical condition and you should seek medical advice to rule out the possibility of a serious illness such as a brain tumor or an aneurysm.
The best way to determine what type of headache you’re having is to keep a journal or headache diary. This can help you track your symptoms and the frequency of your headache attacks. Your journal can also provide valuable information to your doctor, so they can make a more informed diagnosis.
Table of Contents
What are the 7 types of headaches?
The seven types of headaches are:
1. Tension headaches: Tension headaches occur when the muscles in the head, neck and scalp become tense. Symptoms usually include a dull, aching pain around the temples, forehead, and sides of the head.
2. Cluster headaches: Cluster headaches usually occur in “clusters” or periods of several days to weeks with periods of remission in between. Symptoms include a severe, intense, burning or piercing pain around one eye or on one side of the head.
3. Sinus headaches: Sinus headaches are caused by inflammation of the sinuses, which can be triggered by allergies, colds, or changes in the weather. Symptoms typically include facial pain,nasal congestion, and tenderness around the eyes and across the sides of the bridge of the nose.
4. Migraines: Migraines are a common type of headache that can be quite severe. Symptoms can range from throbbing or pulsating pain, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and even visual disturbances.
5. Rebound headaches: Rebound headaches are caused by overuse of medications for headaches, such as over the counter painkillers or caffeine-containing products. Symptoms can range from mild to severe headaches.
6. Hormone headaches: Hormone headaches occur due to fluctuations in hormone levels typically experienced during menstruation. Symptoms usually feel like a tension-type headache with throbbing on both sides of the head.
7. Cervicogenic headaches: Cervicogenic headaches are caused by dysfunction in the neck or upper back and stem from problems in the cervical spine. Symptoms include a dull or aching pain that usually starts at the base of the skull and radiates upwards.
What kind of headache do I need to worry about?
If you have a headache that is severe, persistent, or unusual in any way, it is important to consult with your health care provider. Headaches can be a sign of a serious medical condition and should never be taken lightly.
Additionally, if your headache is accompanied by a fever, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, double vision, or visual changes, you should seek medical attention immediately.
When it comes to headaches, there are two main categories to consider: primary headaches and secondary headaches. Primary headaches are usually tension and/or migraine headaches, and do not signal a more serious condition.
Secondary headaches, however, can indicate a more serious underlying medical condition and require medical attention.
Some signs of a secondary headache to look out for include: a headache that wakes you from sleep, a headache that gets worse when you change position, a headache lasting longer than a couple of days, a headache accompanied by nausea or vomiting, a headache associated with a loss of sensation, difficulty speaking, and/or a headache caused by an injury or trauma.
If your headache does not fall into the category of a primary headache, it is important to seek medical attention. Your doctor will be able to assess the situation and provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan if necessary.
What type of headache is Covid headache?
Covid headache is a type of headache that can be experienced as a symptom of Covid-19. It typically presents as a throbbing and aching sensation, similar to a tension-type or mild cluster headache. The duration and intensity vary and can come and go, or be a constant.
It is usually localized to one side or both sides of the head and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as sensitivity to bright light or sound, neck stiffness, and nausea or vomiting. The cause of Covid headache is uncertain, but it appears to be related to inflammation in the brain and/or changes in the way the nervous system processes pain signals.
It has been associated with other complications of Covid-19, such as a cytokine storm or vascular inflammation. Treatment options for Covid headache include addressing underlying causes, pain relievers, and lifestyle modifications.
If headaches persist despite treatment, further evaluation by a doctor is recommended.
When should you go to the ER for a headache?
If you are experiencing a headache that does not resolve after taking over the counter medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. You should also go to the emergency room if you experience any of the following symptoms along with your headache: blurred vision, confusion, difficulty speaking, double vision, fever, stiff neck, loss of consciousness, numbness or facial drooping, severe headache that’s different from your usual headaches, persistent vomiting, seizures, or suddenly developing a headache with a head injury.
If any of these symptoms are present, it is important to seek care as soon as possible to rule out a serious health concern.
What are signs of headaches everyday?
Signs of headaches everyday can include pain in the head, neck, and face, trouble concentrating, sensitivity to light and sound, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, and blurry vision. People with headaches everyday may also experience irritability, difficulty sleeping, difficulty eating, depression, and sadness.
Other signs to look for include a runny nose, increased sweating, an increased heart rate, and chest pain. People may also experience tingling in the affected areas, a sense of pressure on the affected area, or tinnitus.
What could be the cause of daily headaches?
Daily headaches can be caused by a variety of factors including stress, poor posture, vision issues, dehydration, lack of sleep, certain medications, food allergies and sensitivities, environmental factors, clenching and grinding teeth, and alcohol and caffeine consumption.
Headache triggers can vary from person to person, but common triggers include changes in the weather, lack of physical activity, fatigue, and abrupt changes in routine, such as skipping meals.
Stress and tension are particularly common triggers of headaches. Stress and tension can be caused by physical or emotional issues, long-term problems, or short-term problems. Poor posture can also contribute to headaches.
Stress and tension can create muscle tension in the head, neck, and shoulders, which can lead to headaches.
Vision issues, such as eyestrain, can also cause headaches. Wearing the wrong glasses or contact lenses, incorrect eyeglass prescription, or working too long in front of a computer screen can all contribute to headaches.
Dehydration can also contribute to headaches, particularly if an individual is not drinking enough water and other fluids. Lack of sleep, certain medications, food allergies and sensitivities, environmental factors, clenching and grinding teeth, and alcohol and caffeine consumption can all contribute to headaches as well.
It is important to identify which factors are causing the headaches and seek proper treatment, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation and stress-reduction activities, and posture tips. It may also be necessary to make lifestyle changes such as avoiding potential triggers, exercising regularly, getting enough rest, and drinking plenty of water.
What does a high blood pressure headache feel like?
A high blood pressure headache can have different symptoms depending on the underlying cause and severity. Generally, a high blood pressure headache can feel like a throbbing, pounding sensation in the head or even behind the eyes.
Some other common symptoms include a feeling of tightness or fullness in the head, pain at the back of the neck, dizziness, nausea, and blurred vision. Over time, a high blood pressure headache may become more intense and spread to other parts of the head or body.
In some cases, it may also cause a sensation of pressure in the neck and forehead.
How do you tell if it’s a migraine or just a headache?
It can be difficult to tell the difference between a migraine and a regular headache, as they both cause a sensation of throbbing and aching pain. However, the main difference between the two is the intensity and duration of symptoms.
A migraine is typically much more intense than a regular headache and can last for several hours or more. Other symptoms can include decreased appetite, upset stomach, nausea and vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, numbness and tingling, fatigue, confusion, and visual disturbances known as an aura.
If any of these additional symptoms are present, then it is more likely to be a migraine as opposed to a regular headache. In addition, if the pain is localized to one side of the head, it is more likely to be a migraine.
If there is any uncertainty or concern, it is always best to consult with a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and recommended course of treatment.
How to tell the difference between a headache and a migraine?
The difference between a headache and a migraine can be difficult to determine. Headaches often cause a dull, aching pain that is usually centered around the forehead or temple area. Generally, headaches are seen as a more tolerable than a migraine.
Migraines, on the other hand, tend to cause a more intense, throbbing pain, often described as a pulsing sensation. Migraines can also be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
While the location and intensity of the pain can be the main differentiating factor between a headache and migraine, it is always best to see a healthcare professional to determine an exact diagnosis.
What are warning signs of a migraine?
Warning signs of a migraine can vary depending on the individual, but some common symptoms include: intense head pain on one or both sides of the head, pain that is worsened by physical activity, sensitivity to light and sound, nausea and/or vomiting, vision changes, dizziness, tingling or numbness in the body, changes in taste, and feeling fatigued or unusually energetic.
Other symptoms that may indicate a migraine include focusing or concentration difficulties, changes in mood or behavior, and restlessness. Some people may also experience an aura prior to the onset of the migraine; this could include visual disturbances such as flashes of light or blind spots, or even a loss of coordination or ability to speak.
Depending on the severity of the migraine, other symptoms may appear such as an inability to speak or see clearly, severe nausea and vomiting, confusion, or loss of consciousness. If you experience any of these symptoms or any combination of them, it is important to reach out to your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
How do you relieve a migraine fast?
Although there is no way to get rid of a migraine immediately, there are several steps you can take to relieve migraine headaches quickly and effectively.
First, it’s important to rest and relax, as migraines can be exacerbated by exhaustion or stress. Try to rest in a quiet, dark room, and avoid stimulating activities such as watching television.
Next, take medication specifically designed to treat migraines. Common medications include triptans, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, as well as prescription migraine medications.
If possible, try to also indulge in some lifestyle changes. For example, if you know certain foods or beverages can trigger migraines for you, avoiding them may help. Additionally, drinking plenty of water and eating regular meals can help ensure your body stays hydrated and fueled to avoid those worse headaches.
Finally, try alternative remedies such as massage, acupuncture, and other relaxation techniques. They can help relieve the tension associated with migraines, allowing you to relax and treat the pain faster.
What will a hospital do for a migraine?
Treating a migraine at a hospital depends on the severity of the attack. Hospital staff will typically assess your symptoms and decide what the best course of treatment is for the individual situation.
Possible treatments could include triptans, which are medications specifically designed to treat migraines. If the migraine did not improve with medication, the hospital may also provide pain control techniques, like ice packs or heat therapy.
In some cases, medication may be given intravenously if your migraine is very severe. The hospital may also order a CT scan or MRI in order to rule out any underlying conditions that could be causing your migraine.
In the case of chronic migraines, the hospital may prescribe preventative treatments, like muscle relaxants, or exercise and lifestyle modifications. The hospital may even refer you to a neurologist or other specialist in order to determine the best way to manage long-term migraines.
How long is too long for a headache?
It’s difficult to say how long is too long for a headache because every individual is different and will experience different levels of pain. Generally speaking, it’s best to see a doctor if your headache lasts more than four hours, but if you experience a migraine or other type of regular headache, you may want to seek medical attention sooner than that.
Anytime you experience a new or worsening headache that is accompanied by fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, weakness, numbness, or seizures, it is especially important to seek medical help immediately.
Additionally, if your regular headache is affecting your quality of life, it’s important to talk to a doctor too.
What do ER doctors give for migraines?
Migraines are a debilitating type of headache that can be very painful and often cause nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Treatment for migraines usually consists of medications to reduce symptoms.
ER doctors often provide medications at the onset of severe migraines for rapid symptom relief. Common medications prescribed by ER doctors for treating migraine include analgesics such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen; triptans such as sumatriptan, rizatriptan, and naratriptan; and antiemetics such as prochlorperazine and metoclopramide.
Some medications, such as those from the triptan family, work to reduce swelling of blood vessels that may be contributing to migraine pain.
For those with a history of chronic migraines, ER doctors may provide preventive treatment, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or beta blockers such as propranolol. Such medications can help to reduce the severity and frequency of migraine attacks.
In some cases, ER doctors may prescribe combination medications that contain analgesic, antiemetic, and anti-nausea medications. These can provide quick symptomatic relief and can also help to reduce the need for self-medication with over-the-counter (OTC) products.
ER doctors may also recommend lifestyle changes that can help to minimize the symptoms of migraines, such as limiting exposure to trigger factors (such as stress, foods, odors, and environmental stimuli); avoiding sleeping in late; getting enough sleep; and keeping hydrated.
In addition, ER doctors may refer patients to a neurologist or other specialists for further evaluation and management of chronic migraines.
