What to Know About the Different Types of Headaches

You’re going about your day as usual when an ache forms in your head, seeming to set everything off kilter. But is it just another harmless headache or something more serious? 

While most headaches aren’t cause for alarm, some stem from conditions that need treatment. In either case, there’s a lot you can do about your bothersome symptoms.

At his offices in New Rochelle, New York, board-certified neurologist Dr. Farhad Elyaderani specializes in diagnosing and treating headaches to bring lasting relief.

While there are over 150 types of headaches, here’s a look at several of the most common.

Tension headaches

Given the common occurrence of tension headaches, you’ll likely experience one at some point. A range of factors fuel tension headaches, including depression, stress, dehydration, eye strain, sleep loss, and skipped meals. Long periods of inactivity and loud noises may also contribute.

Tension headache symptoms include:

• A constant, dull pain on both sides of your head
• Tenderness of your face, head, neck, and shoulders
• A pressure sensation behind your eyes
• Sensitivity to light and sound

Your symptoms may last anywhere from 30 minutes to several days. 

Migraine headaches

Roughly one in seven people experience migraines, a type of headache that brings intense pain and a range of other debilitating symptoms.

Other common migraine signs include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Light and noise sensitivity
• Nausea and vomiting
• Vision changes 
• Weakness and fatigue

Without any treatment, migraine pain may last for 4-72 hours. After that, a migraine “hangover,” involving mental fogginess and exhaustion, may follow.

Secondary headaches

Secondary headaches stem from an underlying condition, such as a sinus infection, concussion, infection, or, less commonly, a tumor. 

While the specifics vary, potential secondary headache symptoms include:

• Experiencing a new (to you) type of headache after age 50
• Head pain that disrupts your sleep
• A headache that worsens with exercise or posture changes
• Having additional symptoms that may seem unrelated, such as fever, nasal congestion, memory problems, or personality changes

Signs your secondary headache warrants immediate medical care include excruciating pain (the worst headache of your life), slurred speech, paralysis, vision loss, and seizures. 

Regardless of the cause, your symptoms may persist until that underlying condition is treated. 

Finding headache relief

Many headaches improve with over-the-counter medication, rest, and lifestyle changes—such as eating and drinking enough. For headaches that persist, worsen, or keep returning, Dr. Elyaderani can recommend personalized treatment based on a comprehensive exam.

For severe headaches, including migraines, you may benefit from prescription medication, such as beta-blockers or an antiepileptic drug, or from botulinum toxin type A (Botox®) injections. You may need surgery if your symptoms stem from a brain tumor.

If you’re bothered by frequent or severe headaches, don’t hesitate to get the care you need. Call Dr. Farhad Elyaderani or request an appointment online today.