Different causes can cause headache. We explain its symptoms and possible solutions.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), headaches are extremely common . We should rather say headaches, since there are many types .
In this article we will analyze the 12 most frequent types of headaches , and we will know their symptoms, causes and possible treatments.
Types of headache
As we anticipated, the WHO points out that almost all people suffer from headaches occasionally. Even so, not all headaches are the same, nor do they originate from the same causes.
The duration and intensity of the pain can vary depending on the cause that has originated it . On the other hand, in certain circumstances immediate medical attention may be necessary (for example when it occurs together with a stiff neck, rash, vomiting, confusion, speech problems, paralysis, visual loss or fever greater than 38ºC).
We are going to see the 12 most frequent or well-known types of headaches and some of their characteristics.
1. Tension headache
Tension headache feels like a dull, aching sensation that spreads throughout the head . It involves tenderness around the neck, forehead, scalp, or shoulder muscles.
It is usually caused by stress and can be treated with progressive muscle relaxation, EMG biofeedback, or over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen. It has also been seen how caffeine can reduce its symptoms.
2. Migraine
A migraine is an intense, throbbing pain (like a throb or throbbing) from inside the head . It can last for days if left untreated. Sometimes it also causes sensitivity to light and sound, as well as nausea and vomiting.
Possible causes of migraine include sleep disruption, dehydration, hormonal fluctuations, the consumption of certain foods, or exposure to certain chemicals.
As for its treatment, there is progressive muscle relaxation , temperature biofeedback (or both together), and triptans, drugs that reduce inflammation, are also used.
3. Cluster headaches
A cluster headache is a painful, piercing sensation that occurs around one eye , behind it, or on one side of the face. It is sometimes accompanied by swelling, redness, and sweating on the affected side. This pain occurs in series, and each of these episodes can last between 15 minutes and 3 hours, approximately.
The causes are unknown, and they are treated with some medications such as: oxygen therapy, sumatriptan or lidocaine. In addition, treatments with corticosteroids, melatonin, topiramate and calcium channel blockers are used to prevent them.
4. Hormonal headache
This type of headache appears due to hormonal fluctuations in women , which can cause this type of headache. It is associated with the menstrual cycle, the contraceptive pill or pregnancy. It can be treated with naproxen or frovatripan.
5. Sinus headache
Sinus headache appears as a result of an allergic reaction ; also called sinus headache, where the sensation of pain is focused on the front of the head due to the pressure of mucus in the sinus area.
Its treatment is based on the application of steroid nasal sprays, over-the-counter decongestants such as phenylephrine, or antihistamines such as cetirizine.
6. Rebound headache
This headache consists of a dull or very sharp pain (like a migraine), similar to tension pain . It appears due to the consumption (rather, overconsumption or abuse) of medications such as paracetamol , ibuprofen or aspirin, which have been taken more than 15 days a month.
To alleviate it, it is best to stop consuming the drugs for a period of time.
7. Post-traumatic headache
This headache originates after suffering a head injury, which can cause pain similar to migraines or tension headaches . It lasts between six and twelve months after the injury. It is a type of pain that can even become chronic.
Doctors often prescribe triptans, sumatriptan, beta-blockers, and amitriptyline for this type of pain.
8. Hypertensive headache
Hypertension is the cause of this type of headache , which appears especially when the blood pressure is quite high. It is a dangerous case and in case of suffering it is necessary to seek immediate medical attention.
9. Exertional headache
When you engage in intense physical activity, you are likely to experience this type of headache , due to increased blood flow. This type of headache does not usually last long and can be treated with common drugs such as aspirin or ibuprofen.
10. Caffeine Headache
Caffeine can also cause headaches because it acts directly on the brain . This pain appears when excessive caffeine is taken, or also in a withdrawal syndrome (when you haven’t consumed it for hours and you are used to consuming it).
To avoid this, you can gradually reduce the dose of caffeine .
11. Chronic daily headache
It is a type of primary headache, which encompasses a group of headaches characterized by the almost daily frequency of headaches . Headache symptoms appear more than 15 days a month for at least 3 months.
In most cases, these are people who had previously had a migraine or tension headache. They are frequently accompanied by a high consumption of analgesics and ergots (generally due to self-medication). Like tension headache, it can be treated with progressive muscle relaxation and/or EMG biofeedback.
12. Chronic paroxysmal hemicrania
This headache is sharp and appears on only one side of the head . It can also cause tearing or nasal congestion. Its treatment consists of the administration of indomethacin (anti-inflammatory drug), which quickly relieves symptoms.
Bibliographic references
- Dura, T. and Yoldi, ME (2005). Recurrent acute headaches: clinical and epidemiological characteristics. Annals of Pediatrics, 62(2): 141-146.
- Mayo Clinic. (2019). Headaches: Treatment depends on diagnosis and symptoms.
- Watson, K. (2017). 10 Types of Headaches and How to Treat Them. Healthline.
To the classic question “what do you do?” I always answer “basically I am a psychologist”. In fact, my academic training has revolved around the psychology of development, education and community, a field of study influenced my volunteer activities, as well as my first work experiences in personal services.
