Diagnosing Your Headache: 5 Types of Headaches

Your head hurts, and it's driving you nuts. You have a headache, and you want to know why and how to treat it. That depends on which of the five main types of headaches you are having.

Tension Headaches - Just about everyone has 'tension' headaches. These are characterized by pressure and the absence of nausea. They can be infrequent or chronic. Either way it is better to be active during a tension headache. Treatment for infrequent headaches includes over the counter pain relievers, acupuncture and chiropractic care. For the chronic variety avoid over the counter medications and opt for biofeedback or acupuncture instead.

Migraines - Migraine headaches can be disabling. Those suffering from migraines may have a reduced quality of life due to their symptoms. Seeing 'auras', black spots, stars and blurry vision with a headache are sure signs of migraines. Trigger events are often associated with migraines. Certain foods, odors and hormonal changes are some common triggers. Avoiding these triggers is one way to minimize these headaches. Laying down in a darkened room and avoiding physical activity also helps. Medication can be prescribed for severe cases.

Cluster Headaches - The most severe type of headache is the cluster headache. They can last from 30 to 90 minutes on near daily basis for weeks or months, then subside for a while. The pain is usually behind the eye or temple. Redness or tearing of eye and a runny nose sometimes occur. Some people get cluster headaches about an hour after falling asleep. Medication is often prescribed to treat cluster headaches. Over the counter formulas do not act fast enough to be effective. In rare cases surgery may be performed.

Secondary Headaches - By definition, are the result of some other underlying problem. Brain tumors, aneurysm, hemorrhaging and lesions are common causes of secondary headaches. Changes in headache patterns can indicate this type of headache. These are very serious and need the proper diagnosis from a doctor. Treatment is based on the primary and underlying cause.

Sinus Headaches - As the name implies are caused by sinus infections. These can be misdiagnosed as the pain from other headaches can be felt in the sinuses (cluster headaches making the nose run for example). Antibiotics are used to treat sinus infections which, in turn, will stop the headache that comes with them. Some over the counter medications can help relieve symptoms.

Ironically, the overuse of over the counter pain relievers can actually cause headaches. The only way to stop this kind of headache is to stop taking the pain relievers. On the other hand, some prescription medications can cause headaches. This may or may not be a normal side effect, so mention any such headaches to your doctor.

Diagnosing the type of headache you have can take some time. It is important to communicate with your doctor. Use a diary to keep track of symptoms, where headaches are felt, when they happen, possible triggers, severity and how long they last. This information will help your doctor figure out the type of headache and how best to treat it.