Decoding Headaches

Headaches vary in symptoms and intensity. It may start as a dull ache behind your eyes, searing pain at your temples or come on like a sudden storm. Cedars-Sinai claims there are more than 100 varieties of headaches, so it’s no wonder the ailment can be tough to describe.

However, you’re not alone. The World Health Organization reports 50 to 75% of adults under 65 had at least one headache in the past year. Commonly reported headaches are tension headaches, migraines and sinus headaches.

Use this guide to decode which type you might be experiencing.

Tension Headaches
Tension headaches are the most common type. The pain is moderate to mild, accompanied by a tight feeling around the head and lacks the additional symptoms commonly seen with migraines.The Cleveland Clinic reports these headaches could be worse when bending over or climbing stairs. If you experience tension headaches two or more times a week, talk with your doctor. Lifestyle changes, stress reduction techniques and other treatments may offer some relief.

Migraine
Migraines often disrupt daily life. These intense headaches last two to 72 hours. Migraine suffers experience moderate to severe pounding pain on one or both sides of the head. Other symptoms include nausea, light and odor sensitivity, dizziness or stomach pain. Some migraine patients also see auras, such as zigzags, bright spots or flashes of light. Your doctor can help alleviate symptoms and identify migraine triggers.

Sinus Headaches
Pain and pressure around the eyes, forehead and nose, accompanied by a runny nose, may be a sinus headache. This headache is caused by an infection and often responds to antibiotics. Sinus headaches and migraines share several symptoms. However, treatment with an antibiotic will not impact migraines, and sinus headaches generally don’t cause dizziness or light sensitivity. Your doctor can help diagnose sinus headaches and guide you to a course of treatment as needed.

If headaches interfere with your life, talk with your doctor about prevention and treatment options.

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