What are the types of headaches? How are migraines different from tension headaches? What causes cluster headaches and sinus headaches. Get answers to these questions and more in this comprehensive guide.

Types of Headaches

Headaches can be broadly classified into four main categories: tension, migraine, cluster, and sinus. Tension headaches are the most common, affecting around three-quarters of adults at some point in their lives. These headaches typically cause a dull, squeezing pain on both sides of the head. Migraines, on the other hand, are less common but much more severe, often causing throbbing pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. Cluster headaches are uncommon but extremely painful, striking one side of the head and lasting 30 minutes to 3 hours. Sinus headaches are caused by inflammation or pressure in the sinuses, resulting in pain in the center of the face, bridge of the nose, and cheeks.

Tension Headaches

Tension headaches are the most prevalent type of headache, affecting about three-quarters of adults. The typical tension headache produces a dull, squeezing pain on both sides of the head. While most episodes are mild to moderate in severity and occur infrequently, some people can experience severe tension headaches several times a week. The discomfort usually lasts 20 minutes to 2 hours. Physical and emotional stress often play a role in triggering tension headaches, but other factors like illness, lack of sleep, and missed meals can also contribute. Problems with the neck or jaw muscles and joints can also cause tension headaches.

Migraine Headaches

Migraines are typically less common than tension headaches but are usually much more severe. They are more prevalent in women than men, and genetics play a significant role, with around 70% of migraine sufferers having a close relative with the condition. Migraines are believed to be caused by changes in blood flow and nerve cell activity in the brain. The pain is often described as a moderate to severe throbbing, often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines usually last 4 to 24 hours, and in some people, the attacks are preceded by fatigue, depression, sluggishness, irritability, or restlessness.

Cluster Headaches

Cluster headaches are uncommon but extremely severe. The pain always strikes one side of the head, starting abruptly and lasting for about 30 minutes to 3 hours. Cluster headaches occur five times more often in men than women. As the name suggests, these headaches tend to come in clusters, with one or two headaches a day over 2 to 8 weeks, alternating with headache-free stretches. The remission time between episodes can last 6 months to a year, but it can also be as short as a few weeks or as long as several years. The exact cause of cluster headaches is unclear, but certain triggers are associated with outbreaks, such as alcohol, nitrite-rich foods, tobacco products, bright lights, and hot weather.

Sinus Headaches

Sinus headaches are caused by inflammation or pressure in the sinuses, the air-filled spaces above, between, and beneath the eyes, on either side of the nose. This can occur when the inner membrane becomes inflamed, when fluid builds up in the sinuses and can’t drain out through the nose, or when the pressure in the sinuses is lower than the environmental air pressure. Sinus headache pain is most often felt in the center of the face, the bridge of the nose, and the cheeks, but may also occur behind the eyes or in the center of the forehead.

Other Headache Types

In addition to the main categories, there are several other types of headaches, including:

• Thunderclap Headache: A sudden, excruciating headache that requires immediate medical attention, as it could indicate bleeding in or around the brain.
• COVID-19 Headache: Headaches are one of the most common symptoms of COVID-19, with the severity and duration varying from person to person.
• Cervicogenic Headache: Pain that begins in the neck and travels to the head and face, sometimes confused with migraines and tension headaches.

Triggers and Causes

In addition to the specific causes of different headache types, other situations can trigger occasional or recurring headaches. Many medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, list headaches as a potential side effect. Sudden, strenuous exercise and sexual activity can also cause headaches, as can high blood pressure (hypertension).

Symptoms

Headache symptoms can vary depending on the type, but there is some overlap. The typical tension headache produces a dull, squeezing pain and pressure on both sides of the head, with the shoulders and neck also aching. Migraine pain often begins around the eye and temple before spreading to the back of the head, with a throbbing or pulsating sensation that can be severe. Nausea is also a common migraine symptom. Cluster headaches always strike one side of the head, starting abruptly and lasting 30 minutes to 3 hours.