Aches and pains in the head, face or neck are something that we all experience. We often generalize them as a “headache,” but did you know that there are multiple different kinds of headaches? Each one has a different trigger – this could be sleep deprivation, medication, viral infections etc.
It’s also important to note that a headache will either be “primary” – where the pain is caused by the headache itself. Or “secondary” – in this case, the pain is as a result of another health condition. Let’s find out some more about the different types!
1.Tension headache
A tension headache is the most common type of primary headache. If a person is experiencing this, they will most likely feel the unusual pulsing sensation and discomfort of band-like pressure on either side of the head. This is said to be the only symptom of a tension headache.
The cause, given the name, can be from stress (including anxiety and depression) or pent-up tension in the shoulders, neck or jaw. As far as treatment options, there are many that work to seemingly lessen the pain. However, this should a be a discussion with your doctor.
2.TMJ headache
A TMJ headache is largely connected to the temporomandibular joint in the jaw. Of all the joints within the body, it is one of the most complicated and so a person could experience strange symptoms if there is something not quite right. One of these is the unfortunate nuisance of a headache.
A TMJ headache may include tight jaw muscles, a clicking at the joint or restricted movement among other symptoms. Around 1 in 10 people suffer with this type and a possible cause could be the repetitive motion of grinding teeth.
3.Migraine headache
Unfortunately, for those that suffer with migraines, the symptoms are extremely uncomfortable and can last anywhere from 4 hours to 3 days. A person may find that they have a persistent throbbing pain accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and/or sound.
It is possible to make lifestyle adjustments to decrease the frequency and intensity of your migraines, but for more severe cases, a doctor may need to assist.
4.Cluster headache
This type of headache appears in short bursts of around 15 minutes, up to 3 hours and can typically occur at the same time every day. The severe, sharp pain may be felt around one eye with tearing, red eye or nasal congestion present. Often, they will be pretty consistent for around one to three months, and have a remission period until the headaches return again. However, the time scale is not definitive.
5.Thunderclap headache
This is one of the most severe types that a person can experience. Much like that of a thunderclap, the symptoms can be incredibly scary as they have a very sudden onset, reaching the maximum intensity in just a matter of seconds. They require immediate medical attention as they could signal a serious, life-threatening condition such as meningitis, a bleed or blood clot on the brain or an aneurysm.
These are just a few of the most common types of headaches. Whilst pain in the head, face or neck can be painful, annoying and disruptive to your everyday routine, there are treatments available. Being able to recognize the different symptoms could help you in emergency situations or simply prompt you to seek out the knowledge of your doctor.