Different Types of Headaches: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments, and More
Headaches are one of the most common health issues people face, ranging from mild discomfort to debilitating pain. They’re so common that up to 15% of Australians are taking medication for their headaches at any given time! Understanding the type of headache you’re experiencing often helps to identify the cause and find the most appropriate treatment. Whether it’s a tension headache, migraine, or sinus headache, knowing the symptoms to look out for and the possible triggers are key to managing the pain.
This article explores various types of headaches, their potential causes, and possible treatment options. For personalised advice, contact our team at Whole Body Clinic today.
Common Types of Headaches
Whether you’re a student sitting for exams, a young parent juggling work and family, or a retiree enjoying spending time with your grandchildren, headaches may pop up and be a pain— literally. From tension headaches caused by stress or poor posture to migraines triggered by hormonal changes, every type of headache has its own set of symptoms and potential treatment options. By identifying the possible cause and tailoring your approach towards them, you may be able to reduce the frequency and severity of your headaches and potentially improve your quality of life.
Some common types of headaches are:
1. Tension Headaches
Tension headaches are the most common form of headache, often described as a dull ache or pressure around the head.
Possible causes of tension headaches:
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Poor posture
- Dehydration
- Lack of sleep
Common symptoms of tension headaches:
- Dull head pain
- Aching head pain
- Tenderness in the neck
- Pressure behind the eyes
Potential treatment options for tension headaches:
- Over-the-counter (OTC) medication such as paracetamol
- Stress management techniques
- Improved posture
- Regular stretching
2. Migraines
Migraines are severe headaches that often come with additional symptoms like nausea, light sensitivity, and visual disturbances.
Possible causes of migraines:
- Hormonal changes
- Lack of sleep
- Certain foods or drinks that trigger you
Common symptoms of migraines:
- Throbbing head pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Sensitivity to light and sound
Potential treatment options for migraines:
- Prescription medication such as triptans
- Preventative treatments such as beta-blockers
- Resting in a dark, quiet room
Read the article: What is a Migraine?
3. Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches usually appear in cycles, also known as ‘clusters’.
Possible causes of cluster headaches:
- Unknown, but may be linked to the hypothalamus
- Triggers such as alcohol or certain medications
Common symptoms of cluster headaches:
- Sharp, severe pain around one eye
- Tearing and redness in the affected eye
- Runny nose
Potential treatment options for cluster headaches:
- Prescription medications such as sumatriptan
- Preventative treatments such as calcium channel blockers
4. Sinus Headaches
Sinus headaches are often caused by sinus inflammation and are sometimes mistaken for migraines.
Possible causes of sinus headaches:
- Sinus inflammation
Common symptoms of sinus headaches:
- Pressure in the forehead, cheeks, and around the eyes
- Runny nose
- In severe cases, fever or fatigue
Potential treatment options for sinus headaches:
- Decongestants
- Antihistamines
- Nasal irrigation
- Antibiotics if you have an infection
5. Medication Overuse Headaches
While it may be tempting to use medication every time you have a headache, this may lead to medication overuse headaches.
Possible causes of medication overuse headaches:
- Frequent use of pain relief medications, whether taken for headaches or other pain
Common symptoms of medication overuse headaches:
- Dull pain
- Migraine-like pain
- Symptoms worsen with medication use
Potential treatment options for medication overuse headaches:
- Gradual withdrawal from the overused medication
- Preventative treatments in an effort to manage chronic pain including chronic headaches
6. Exertional Headaches
These headaches occur after intense physical activity, such as exercise.
Possible causes of exertional headaches:
- Increased blood flow to the skull during the activity that caused the exertion
- Dehydration
Common symptoms of exertional headaches:
- Throbbing pain on both sides of the head
- Symptoms resolve within minutes to hours
Potential treatment options for exertional headaches:
- OTC pain medication
- Staying hydrated
- Gradual warm-up before exercise
When to Seek Medical Attention
Many headaches may be managed with lifestyle changes and medication, but some may signal more serious conditions. If you have any of the following, seek medical attention:
- Sudden, severe pain
- Fever
- Stiff neck
- Rash
- Vision changes
- Slurred speech
- Numbness or weakness on one side of the body
Can Osteopathy Help With Headaches?
Osteopathy may be a useful approach to managing headaches, as osteopaths aim to address the root cause rather than the symptoms on their own. This is because osteopaths view the body holistically, where issues in one area may lead to pain or discomfort in another. This is especially relevant for headaches, which are often linked to issues in the neck and shoulders.
Through hands-on techniques like soft tissue massage, joint mobilisation, and stretching, osteopaths may be able to reduce tension in a person’s neck and shoulders, improve blood flow, and restore alignment. For tension headaches, for example, osteopathy has the potential to target muscle tightness and posture-related strain.
Read the article: How Osteopathy Can Help With Your Headaches
Looking for Headache Treatment in Brisbane?
If headaches are disrupting your life, it’s time to take back control. At Whole Body Clinic, we provide personalised care where we aim to find and address the root causes of your headaches. Our experienced team offers tailored treatment plans in an effort to help you live without headaches ruling your life. To experience the Whole Body Clinic difference, book your appointment today.