Register now or log in to join your professional community.
Tension headaches are the most common type of headache and are what we think of as normal, "everyday" headaches. They feel like a constant ache that affects both sides of the head, as though a tight band is stretched around it.
A tension headache normally won't be severe enough to prevent you doing everyday activities. They usually last for 30 minutes to several hours, but can last for several days.
The exact cause is unclear, but tension headaches have been linked to things such as stress, poor posture, skipping meals and dehydration.
Tension headaches can usually be treated with ordinary painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen. Lifestyle changes, such as getting regular sleep, reducing stress and staying well hydrated, may also help.
Read more about tension headaches.
MigrainesMigraines are less common than tension headaches. They're usually felt as a severe, throbbing pain at the front or side of the head. Some people also have other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting and increased sensitivity to light or sound.
Migraines tend to be more severe than tension headaches and can stop you carrying out your normal daily activities. They usually last at least a couple of hours, and some people find they need to stay in bed for days at a time.
Most people can treat their migraines successfully with over-the-counter medication. But if they're severe, you may need stronger medication that's only available on prescription. This may be able to relieve and prevent your migraines.
Read more about migraines.
Cluster headachesCluster headaches are a rare type of headache that occur in clusters for a month or two at a time around the same time of year.
They're excruciatingly painful, causing intense pain around one eye, and often occur with other symptoms, such as a watering or red eye and a blocked or runny nose.
Pharmacy medications don't ease the symptoms of a cluster headache, but a doctor can prescribe specific treatments to ease the pain and help prevent further attacks.
Read more about cluster headaches.
Medication and painkiller headachesSome headaches are a side effect of taking a particular medication. Frequent headaches can also be caused by taking too many painkillers. This is known as a painkiller or medication-overuse headache.
A medication-overuse headache will usually get better within a few weeks once you stop taking the painkillers that are causing it, although your pain may get worse for a few days before it starts to improve.
Read more about painkiller headaches.
Hormone headachesHeadaches in women are often caused by hormones, and many women notice a link with their periods. The combined contraceptive pill, the menopause and pregnancy are also potential triggers.
Reducing your stress levels, having a regular sleeping pattern, and ensuring you don't miss meals may help reduce headaches associated with your menstrual cycle.
Read more about hormone headaches.
Other causes of headachesHeadaches can also have a number of other causes, including:
neurological signs and stress
it depends on signs and symptoms assosciated , presentation with "red flag" symptoms ( wt.loss , old age , focal neurological signs ,.... ) always need further investigation to rule out serious condition .
frequent headaches tell that you are not taking proper sleep or rest or may you have some tension , or may be you are taking proper diet according to your need, or you may have any other problem
Do you need help in adding the right keywords to your CV? Let our CV writing experts help you.
