What Type Of Headache Do You Have?

A headache is pain in any region of the head. Headaches may occur on one or both sides of the head, localized in a certain location, radiate across the head from one point, or have a band-like quality. A headache may be sharp, throbbing, or a dull ache. Headaches may appear gradually or suddenly, and they may last less than an hour or for several days. It’s important to figure out what type of headache is causing your pain. If you know your headache type, you can treat it correctly.

Tension headaches

This is the most common type. It feels like a constant ache or pressure around the head, especially at the temples or back of the head and neck. They are not as severe as migraines and they don’t usually cause nausea or vomiting; and they rarely stop you from doing your daily activities.

Cluster headaches

These are recurring headaches that occur in groups or cycles. They appear suddenly and are characterized by severe, debilitating pain on one side of the head, and are often accompanied by a watery eye and nasal congestion, or a runny nose on the same side of the face. This type of headache causes restlessness and irritability; affected individuals are unlikely to lie down, as someone with a migraine might. The cause of cluster headaches is unknown, but there may be a genetic component.

Sinus headaches

Inflammation of sinuses, often due to an infection, can cause this type of headache. It usually comes with a fever and can be diagnosed by symptoms or the presence of pus on examination.

Rebound headaches

Overuse of painkillers for headaches can lead to rebound headaches. Culprits include over-the-counter medications like aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol), or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), as well as prescription drugs.

Migraine headaches

Migraines can run in families and are diagnosed using certain criteria.

At least five previous episodes of headaches
Lasting between 4–72 hours
At least two out of these four: one-sided pain, throbbing pain, moderate-to-severe pain, and pain that interferes with, is worsened by, or prohibits routine activity. At least one associated feature: nausea and/or vomiting, or sensitivity to light and sound.

A migraine may be foreshadowed by aura, such as visual distortions or hand numbness. About 15-20% of people with migraines experience these symptoms.

There are many triggers for headaches that we might not be aware of. Some of these triggers might be certain foods that we eat, poor sleep, poor posture, certain habits such as grinding teeth, and bright lights. It is always a good idea to keep a diary of your daily diet and activities to pinpoint the cause of your headaches. Your headache symptoms can help your doctor determine the cause and the appropriate treatment. Most headaches aren’t the result of a serious illness, but some may result from a life-threatening condition requiring emergency care.

How Can PhysioChiroWellness Help?

At PhysioChiroWellness Integrated Health Centre our highly-skilled practitioners work together to create fully integrated health solutions that may include physiotherapy, chiropractic, massage therapy, acupuncture, naturopathy, medical aesthetics amongst others. Visit one of our clinics in Ajax, Mississauga, Vaughan and Newmarket. Our professionals will work together towards achieving an optimal health for all our patients through a holistically approach when treating any condition or pain they may present.

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What Type Of Headache Do You Have?