Nausea and vomiting are also common.Īround 25% of people with migraine experience an aura before the headache starts.

Share on Pinterest Peter Finch/Getty ImagesĪ headache with migraine often involves intense throbbing pain on one side of the head.Ī person may experience a heightened sensitivity to light, sound, and smell. This article explores some of the most common types of headaches, along with their causes, treatment, prevention, and when to speak with a doctor. In contrast, a secondary headache has a separate underlying cause, such as a head injury or sudden caffeine withdrawal. Examples include migraine and tension headaches. The International Classification of Headache Disorders defines more than 150 different types of headaches, which it divides into two main categories: primary and secondary.Ī primary headache is not due to another condition - it is the condition itself. However, repeated attacks or certain types of headaches could indicate a more serious health condition. While they can sometimes be painful and debilitating, a person can treat most of them with simple pain relievers, and they will go away within several hours. Headaches are a common complaint - the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that almost half of all adults will have experienced at least one headache within the last year. However, being able to recognize what kind of headache a person is experiencing can inform them how best to treat it and whether to speak with a doctor. Most are short-lived and rarely a cause for concern. There are many different types of headaches with varying causes and symptoms.

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