Determining the Type of Headache Can Change Course of Treatment

There are many types of headaches that can occur. Just because someone sufferers from migraines does not mean that every headache they have is a migraine. Many migraine headache medications do not help with other headache types. So, it may seem that someone has a medication resistant migraine headache when really it just may be a different type of headache. It is important to properly diagnose the headaches so that the proper treatment can be used.

Migraine headaches are just one of a number of types of headaches. Types of headaches include tension, cluster, sinus, rebound and migraine headaches.

Tension headaches

Tension headaches are the most common type of headache. Tension headaches feel like there is a constant ache or pressure around the head. Usually this pain occurs at the temples or the back of the head and neck. These headaches are not as severe as migraines. They also are not usually accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Tension headaches usually do not prevent someone from continuing their regular daily activities. Over-the-counter treatments, like aspirin, ibuprofen, or Tylenol are usually sufficient to treat tension headaches. Researchers believe that tension headaches are caused by contractions in the neck and scalp muscles. These contractions can be caused by a response of stress and sometimes changes in brain chemicals.

Cluster headaches

Cluster headaches commonly affect more men than women. These headaches are recurring ones that occur in groups or cycles. Cluster headaches appear suddenly and are characterized by severe, debilitating pain on one side of the head. On this same side of the head there is often a watery eye and nasal congestion or a runny nose. During an attack, it is common for sufferers to feel restless and unable to get comfortable. Researchers have been unable to figure out the cause of cluster headaches, however, they think that there may be some kind of genetic component. There are several medications that can reduce both the frequency and duration of the cluster headache attacks.

Sinus headaches

Sinus headaches come as a result of an inflamed sinus. The inflammation occurs usually because of infection. Sinus headaches are usually accompanied by fever. Doctors are able to diagnose sinus headaches using an MRI or CT scan if necessary. These scans are able to detect changes in fluid levels. However, most commonly, doctors are able to use a fiber-optic scope to see the presence of pus. Sinus headaches can be relieved by taking antibiotics. The use of antihistamines and decongestants can also be helpful for those who suffer from sinus headaches.

Rebound headaches

Rebound headaches can be very difficult to diagnose. Rebound headaches are a result of the overuse of painkillers. Usually the painkillers that cause rebound headaches are over-the-counter medications like Tylenol. However, some prescription medications can also cause rebound headaches.

Many times those who suffer from a daily headache are overusing their headache medications. While researchers do not know the exact cause of rebound headaches, they believe that too much medication can cause the brain to shift into an excited state, which triggers more headaches. A different theory is that the headaches are a symptom of withdrawal as the level of medicine drops in the bloodstream.

Migraine headaches

Migraine headaches are considered a neurological disorder. They are also usually a genetic condition. Migraine headaches can last between four hours and 72 hours. They are typically characterized by one-sided pain and throbbing pain. The pain of migraine headaches can interfere with routine activity. Migraine headaches can be accompanied by nausea or vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound.

Migraine headaches can be preceded by an aura, which can be visual distortion or numbness. Migraine headache sufferers can feel completely helpless during an attack.

Classifying the type of headache can greatly help treat it. However, only a doctor can really diagnose the type of headache a patient is suffering from. There is an abundance of information available on each type of headache, but self-diagnosing can be dangerous.

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