Millions of people get headaches on a regular basis. From the minor head throb after a tough day to the more serious, chronic migraines that put you out of commission for days on end, it is important to pay attention to the signs your head is giving off as many serious medical conditions can be present when headaches become too frequent or too painful. There are several types of headaches that people experience on a regular basis. Here is a basic overview of headache types, the causes, and what you can do about them: Tension Headaches These are considered the typical headache people experience with a dull ache and pressure around different areas of the head. This kind of headache is usually due to stress, lack of sleep, dehydration, improper diet, alcohol consumption, and lack of exercise. Over the counter medications are most often used to treat tension headaches. Migraine Headaches Migraines do not typically occur daily but when they hit they can actually disable you for normal life. Migraines usually include throbbing pain on one side of your head or both. There can be difficulty tolerating sound and light during a migraine. Over the counter medication can be used successfully with some people while others may need a rescription medication from a doctor. Cluster Headaches Cluster headaches can be incredibly painful with pressure and intense pain around the eye. They earned the name because they often occur in clusters of time for a month or more. This type of headache will warrant a doctor’s prescription to provide relief. Secondary Headaches These headaches are linked to a specific reason such as when you are sick, have sinus issues, suffered an injury to the head or a concussion, or as the result of an allergic reaction. Overconsumption of alcohol may also cause this type of headache. Women may suffer headaches frequently due to their hormones, especially during their menstrual cycle. Those that experience headaches frequently or have headaches that are painful should seek medical attention to rule out more serious health conditions and to diagnosis the cause of the headaches. In many cases, headaches are not anything to be concerned with but in other cases, serious and life-threatening health conditions may be the root cause of the headache.
