4 Major Types of Headaches and Where They Hurt

Just about everyone has a headache now and then. Most are fairly easy to manage with over-the-counter medications, and we tend to blame them on stress, eye strain or lack of sleep. But some people have chronic or severe headaches with very specific symptoms that require ongoing medical treatment. Before you can treat a headache, however, it helps to know what kind it is.

Click here to view the 5 common types of headaches.

Sinus: Many individuals suffer from chronic sinus headaches, which produce a deep, dull pain around the bridge of the nose and behind the cheekbones. These are caused by inflamed or infected sinuses, and they result in an overall “stopped up” feeling in the head, especially in the ears and nose.

Tension: Tension headaches cause an uncomfortable tightness like a headband squeezing the forehead. Most cause mild to moderate pain, and are the result of physical tension in the muscles of the neck, jaw and face. TMJ disorder, spine misalignment, and bad posture are often the cause of tension headaches.

Migraine: This is the most painful type of headache, occurring on one side of the head and often concentrated behind the eye. Migraine sufferers describe a pounding, throbbing pain and a sensitivity to light and noise. Migraines often last a few hours and result in nausea and vomiting, followed by a deep sleep.

Cluster: Men are more likely than women to suffer from cluster headaches, which occur in “clusters” or several times a day. They cause an intense burning or piercing behind the eye, and sometimes last just 15 or 20 minutes. However, these daily “clusters” may occur over a period of a week or more.

If you suffer from chronic headaches (of any type), talk with your doctor about the best ways to treat them. Many patients have found relief with prevention therapies, lifestyle changes, and injectable medications.

A primary care provider can help manage symptoms. Click here to find a primary care provider.