Not every bad headache is a migraine!

Headaches are one of the most common pain-related health problems in both children and adults. Most types of headaches usually aren't dangerous. Some headaches may occur again and again, such as: Tension headaches. These are the most common type of headache. They are often caused by stress and emotional strain. Most adults have tension headaches from time to time, and everyone may have different areas of pain. Cluster headaches. Cluster headaches are severe headaches on one side of your head that happen in groups, or "clusters." They usually occur over weeks or months. Cluster headaches can be so painful that you are not able to follow your normal routine or do your usual activities. The pain is often called the worst type of headache pain. Trigeminal neuralgia headaches. Trigeminal neuralgia is a headache condition that causes severe pain in the face. It's caused by pain in the trigeminal nerve, which carries signals from the face to the brain. Migraine headaches. Migraines are painful, throbbing headaches that last from four to 72 hours. When you have a migraine, it may be so painful that you aren't able to do your usual activities. But migraines can be treated. And even though they make you feel bad, they don't cause long-term damage. Hemicranial headaches. Hemicranial headaches are a type of headache that affects one side of the head.

Causes of headaches may include:

• Stress.
• Skipping meals or not getting enough to eat.
• Sleeping too much or not enough.
• Alcohol use.
• Sinus problems.
• Getting too much or too little caffeine.
• Certain foods or drinks.

In rare cases, a headache may be a symptom of a serious illness or injury.

Headaches can cause pain:

• In your upper back and neck.
• At the base of your head.
• Around your ears.
• In your jaw.
• Above your eyes.

Symptoms of headaches can include a constant headache, usually with pain or pressure on both sides of your head. You may feel tightness around your forehead that feels like a "vise grip." You may also have aching pain in your temples or the back of your head and neck. The pain usually isn't severe.

Most of the time, headaches get better or go away with home treatment and don't require a visit to a provider. Home treatment for headaches can often help reduce how long you have pain and how severe it is. Start home treatment as soon as you can. If your provider has prescribed a specific treatment for your headaches, begin treatment as soon as a headache starts. Be sure to follow the provider’s instructions when you take any prescription medicine for your headache. If you are taking headache medicine more than two days a week, talk with your provider. Taking medicine too often can cause more headaches. Work with your provider to find the best treatment for your headaches.

Our neurology team specializes in the treatment of headaches of all kinds. Contact us today to schedule an appointment by visiting us online or calling 302-623-3017.