What Are the Main Types of Headaches by Location?

Getting a headache is a normal experience, but it can be annoying, painful, and even leave you feeling unable to carry on with your day. Headaches are the third most common condition that people who seek medical headache treatment.

If you’re wondering what types of head pain there are, look no further. Below is a list of different types of headaches by location.

Tension Headaches

The most common type of headache, are felt as a steady, dull ache on both sides of the head and in the neck and upper back. They are usually the result of stress and often lead to muscle tension and tightness, which can be triggered by physical or emotional stress.

The pain can be mild to moderate and typically occurs in the late afternoon or early evening and can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 7 days.

Migraine Headaches

Migraines can be debilitating and can lead to difficulty functioning in everyday life. Migraines often involve the same symptoms of tension and sinus headaches, but painful migraines tend to be more intense and persistent than other types of headaches.

Additionally, certain medications and supplements, such as Zomig, should be used immediately after the onset of the headache, typically within two hours, in order to provide the most effective relief. For more info about Zomig’s side effects, check out this site.

Cluster Headache

A type of headache primarily characterized by excruciating pain located around one eye or the temple region on one side of the head.  This type of headache is one of the “hallmark features” of cluster headaches and is often referred to as a “suicide headache” due to its severity.

Cluster headaches can be triggered by factors such as alcohol, histamine, nitroglycerin, and lack of sleep.

Sinus Headache

Sinus headaches can be very painful, but fortunately, can be treated with a combination of medications. Such as nasal sprays or decongestants, and lifestyle changes.

They are typically caused by inflammation and irritation of the sinus cavity. It is caused by sinus infections, allergic reactions and air pressure changes.

People with sinus headaches may find relief from over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Post-traumatic Headache

A type of headache that can occur after a traumatic incident such as a physical trauma, a surgical procedure, a stroke, a concussion, or other head injuries.  Common locations for post-traumatic headaches vary from headaches in the occipital region, in the upper neck, or around the eye in the form of an orbital headache.

Symptoms may also include nausea, vomiting, light and sound sensitivity, and pain that can last for hours or days.

Scalp Headaches

Scalp headaches lie beneath the scalp, rather than covering the head as a whole, and are usually due to muscle contracting and relaxing in response to stress or other triggers.

The intensity of the pain may range from mild to severe. Scalp headaches occur more frequently in women than in men, and are more common in young adults and preteens. They can be chronic or acute and may have no apparent cause.

Recognize The Types of Headaches by Location

Understanding the types of headaches by location is essential to finding relief. For any headache, it is important to seek medical care if the pain persists. Talk to your doctor about treatments suited for your type of headache today.

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