Tips to Live By

Common Types of Headaches: Where You Feel Them & What to Do About Them

June 16, 2021 - Katie McCallum

When your head is aching, pounding or throbbing, you're likely more concerned about finding a pain reliever than you are about identifying which type of headache you have.

But should that actually be your primary concern?

"We've all felt the pain of a headache. What you may not realize, however, is that there are different types of headaches and each type is alleviated and/or prevented in a different way," says Dr. Aarthi Ram, neurologist at Houston Methodist.

For instance, over-the-counter pain relievers may help ease a tension headache, but they're less likely to relieve a migraine or cluster headache.

The next time you feel a headache coming on, Dr. Ram recommends starting with a little headache sleuthing. This way, you can be sure you're addressing your headache as effectively as possible.

Common types of headaches and how to treat them

Tension headache

A tension headache feels like a dull forehead ache that may also come with sensitivity around your neck or shoulder muscles.

How to alleviate a tension headache: Take an over-the-counter pain reliever.

How to prevent a tension headache:

  • Get plenty of sleep
  • Exercise regularly
  • Take steps to reduce stress

Migraine headache

A migraine feels like an intense, throbbing pain often accompanied by sensitivity to light, sound and physical activity.

How to alleviate a migraine: Relax in a quiet, dark place and consider consuming a small amount of caffeine (but don't overdo it).

How to prevent a migraine:

  • Get plenty of sleep
  • Exercise regularly
  • Take steps to reduce stress
  • Keep a migraine diary to identify (and avoid) potential triggers
  • Consult your doctor about trying an over-the-counter magnesium supplement

If you suffer from chronic migraine headaches, your doctor may prescribe medication for both relief and prevention.

Cluster headache

A cluster headache feels like a burning, piercing pain that may come with swelling, sweating, nasal congestion and red, watery eyes.

To alleviate a cluster headache: Take medication and treatments prescribed by your doctor, such as oxygen therapy.

To prevent a cluster headache:

  • Avoid potential triggers, including alcohol and tobacco products
  • Take preventive medications prescribed by your doctor

If you're frequently experiencing any of these types of headaches, talk to your doctor — especially if your headache is severe and interrupting daily activities.

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