While there are many different kinds of headaches, tension-type and migraine headaches are most common. Since these two headache types may be treated differently, determining which type you have is a critical step in relieving the pain.

Tension-type headaches are sometimes called muscle contraction headaches. The pain is usually a dull ache on both sides of the head and has been described as feeling like a tight band across the head. It can also result in neck and shoulder pain.

Migraine-type headaches produce moderate to severe pounding or throbbing pain, common on one side of the head. Migraine pain is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and sensitivity to light and/or sounds. To answer your questions about migraines, visit the Migraine section of this site.

Other types of headaches you may have heard of include:

Cluster headaches are relatively uncommon, but cause excruciating, sharp-as-knife pain around one eye. Attacks occur daily in clusters of weeks or months, then disappear completely for months or years. 90% of sufferers are males, most aged 20-30. See your doctor if you think you have a cluster headache.

Rebound headaches occur in patients whose persistent headache pain causes them to overuse headache medication. This may cause symptoms to worsen instead of improve. See your doctor if you are taking maximum recommended doses without relief.

Sinus headaches are headaches with a deep and constant pain in the cheekbones, forehead, or bridge of the nose. This pain usually intensifies with sudden head movement or straining and is usually accompanied by symptoms such as fever, runny nose, and clogged ears.

Causes of Headaches

The cause: brain chemistry

Medical researchers understand the mechanisms of headache better than ever before. In fact, the latest theory about the underlying cause of headache has to do with brain chemistry. While research to the underlying causes of headache is ongoing, common factors that trigger headache today are well documented. This understanding can greatly help headache sufferers like you. By avoiding the factors that trigger your headaches, you can prevent their onset.