Headache Types

While there are many different kinds of headaches, tension-type and migraine headaches are most common. Since these two headache types may be treated differently, determining which type you have is a critical step in relieving the pain.

Tension-type headaches are sometimes called muscle contraction headaches. The pain is usually a dull ache on both sides of the head and has been described as feeling like a tight band across the head.

Migraine-type headaches produce moderate to severe pounding or throbbing pain, common on one side of the head. Migraine pain is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, dizziness and sensitivity to light and/or sounds. To answer your questions about migraines, visit the Migraines area of the Headache Center.

Other types of headaches you may have heard of include:

Cluster headaches are relatively uncommon, but cause excruciating, sharp-as-knife pain around one eye. Attacks occur daily in clusters of weeks or months , then disappear completely for months or years. 90% of sufferers are males, most aged 20-30. See your doctor if you think you have a cluster headache.

Rebound headaches occur in patients whose persistent headache pain causes them to overuse headache medication. This may cause symptoms to worsen instead of improve. See your doctor if you are taking maximum recommended doses without relief.