What is a headache?
Most people get headaches, but it can be hard to know what kind you have, why you’re getting them, and what they mean for your health. Some headaches are related to stress and other external factors, some are caused by allergies or short-term illness, and others may be the sign of a more serious issue.
Headaches are characterized by any type of pain in the head, scalp, or neck. Types can often be identified by where the pain is located, how often they occur, and how severe they are. Headaches are generally treatable but may require additional treatment if they’re a symptom of a more serious condition.
If you or your loved one are experiencing headaches and are unsure of the cause, Penn Medicine offers the latest and most advanced testing and treatment options. As a leading neurology provider in the greater Philadelphia and South Jersey region, we’re ready to provide you with the most accurate answers and best care.
Types of headaches
Headaches are generally divided into primary and secondary categories. The most common types of primary headaches include:
- Tension headache: a type of headache that causes pressure-like pain on both sides of the head, or around the neck or scalp
- Sinus headache: a headache caused by pressure in the sinuses sometimes as a result of a sinus infection
- Migraine headache: a type of headache characterized by intense throbbing pain that can last several days
- Cluster headache: a rare type of headache that occurs in groups, or clusters, with episodes lasting one to three hours
- Hypnic headaches: a rare type of headache disorder that only occurs during sleep, they typically last 30 to 60 minutes
Secondary headaches are usually a symptom of a more serious condition, such as a tumor, aneurysm, meningitis, or acute injury.
Headache symptoms
The symptoms of primary headaches vary depending on the type of headache and cause. However, there are several typical symptoms that one experiences with a headache. If you have a headache, you may experience:
- A dull, sharp, or throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head
- Mild to moderate aching, but not severe (severe pain may indicate a migraine or other condition)
- Pain in the head and neck region that gets worse with time or with sudden movement of the head
- Difficulty focusing or sleeping due to pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
While these are common headache symptoms, what you feel will depend on what type of headache you’re experiencing. A migraine typically comes with more debilitating symptoms than a standard headache and can last several days, while a sinus headache often causes pain and pressure in the teeth, cheeks, and jaw due to congestion in the sinus cavities.
Pain from secondary headaches usually comes out of nowhere and is very intense. If you experience this type of headache, it may be a good idea to make an appointment with your care provider. Seek care immediately if your headache is affecting your speech or vision or you fear you may lose consciousness.
Causes of headaches
Headaches can have many different causes, depending on the type. Some of the main causes include:
- Physical and emotional stress
- Dehydration
- Allergies, cold, and flu
- Physical injury
- Changes in weather or air pressure
- Loud noises
- Exhaustion and long periods of unrest
- Overuse of medication
- Caffeine withdrawal
- Lifestyle issues like drinking alcohol, eating foods that contain nitrates, or poor posture
More serious causes include brain-health issues like tumors or aneurysms, meningitis, concussions, COVID-19 infections, strokes, and panic attacks. If you’re unsure of what’s causing your headaches, the neurology specialists at Penn Medicine are ready to guide you toward the most informed and accurate diagnosis.
Diagnosing headaches
Identifying what kind of headache you have and how it affects your overall health starts with a physical exam. It’s helpful if you can keep track of when and how your headaches started and tell your doctor about any patterns you’ve noticed.
Your doctor will assess your headache symptoms, how often they occur, and any noticeable triggers. They may suggest you take a blood test as well as other tests that can help rule out or identify underlying conditions. Penn Medicine offers the latest and most advanced brain imaging and diagnostic techniques to pinpoint a diagnosis.
Treatment options for headaches
Headaches can often be treated with medication or home-care methods like drinking water, resting in a dark room, and applying a cool compress to your forehead. Stress management techniques like yoga and massage and alternative therapies such as acupuncture and biofeedback may also provide relief. If your headaches persist, your doctor may recommend additional treatments based on your symptoms and underlying conditions.
Headache treatment and management at Penn Medicine
A headache isn’t always “just a headache,” and we understand how hard it can be to look for answers. Penn Medicine’s Headache Program offers expert clinicians and the latest diagnostic tools to treat all types of headaches, including migraines, tension-type headaches, cluster headaches, chronic daily headaches, and facial pain disorders.
Our headache team consists of neurologists, clinical psychologists, and physical and occupational therapists who come together to give you the highest-quality and most compassionate care.