Throbbing pain. A dull ache. Sudden pain or “brain freeze” after eating ice cream. Pain on the top of the head. As one of the most common pain conditions experienced worldwide, headaches can range from mildly uncomfortable to debilitating.
Headaches often cause absenteeism from school or work. Those who experience frequent headaches may find that their mental health is impacted as well in the form of anxiety or depression.
Book OnlineThe Main Types of Headaches
There are more than 150 types of headaches, which fall into two main categories: primary and secondary headaches.
Primary headaches
These headaches are those that aren’t due to another medical condition. The category includes
- Cluster headaches
- Migraine
- New daily persistent headaches (NDPH)
- Tension headaches
Secondary headaches
This type of headache is related to another condition, including
- Head injury
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Infection
- Medication overuse
- Sinus congestion
- Trauma
- Tumor
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there other drug-free ways to reduce headache pain?
You may want to try relaxation techniques, yoga, or acupuncture which may help.
Can eliminating certain foods help relieve my headaches?
Quite possibly. For example, Parmesan cheese, dark chocolate, and red wine can cause headaches in many people. If you notice you get a headache after consuming these or other foods and beverages, eliminating them from your diet is recommended.
When should I seek immediate care for a headache?
If you have a headache that is unusually severe or gradually worsens you should seek attention. You also need immediate care if your headache follows a blow to the head or is accompanied by fever, stiff neck, confusion, decreased alertness, or memory.
Other warning signs include visual disturbances, slurred speech, weakness, numbness, or seizures. If you experience any of the above, it’s crucial that you seek immediate medical attention.