What Is a Headache?
A headache is pain or discomfort in any region of the head. It can occur on one or both sides, be isolated to a certain location, radiate across the head, or have a sharp, dull, or throbbing quality.
Common Types of Headaches
- Tension headaches: The most common type, often caused by stress or muscle strain.
- Migraines: Intense, throbbing pain often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light and sound.
- Cluster headaches: Severe pain that occurs in cyclical patterns or clusters.
- Sinus headaches: Associated with sinus infections and pressure around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead.
Possible Causes
Headaches can result from many factors, including:
- Stress or anxiety
- Dehydration
- Lack of sleep
- Eyestrain
- Certain foods or drinks (e.g., alcohol, caffeine, aged cheese)
- Hormonal changes
- Underlying medical conditions
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if your headache:
- Is sudden and severe ("thunderclap" headache)
- Follows a head injury
- Is accompanied by fever, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, or vision problems
- Gets worse over time
- Occurs more frequently or becomes disabling
Simple Relief Tips
For mild headaches, you might try:
- Drinking water
- Resting in a quiet, dark room
- Applying a cold or warm compress
- Gentle neck or scalp massage
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (used as directed)