Headache types

Before we try and identify the major headache types, it is better to first know what a headache is. A headache can be simply defined as a pain that occurs in the head. The pain can come from behind the head or on the upper side of the neck as a result of the muscles or blood vessels in the area tightening or swelling. When these areas are pressurized, the nerves send a number of messages to the brain that signals a pain. This results in a headache.

There can be different causes for each type of headache. Now let’s have a closer look at the different headache types.

Some of the most noted headache types that doctors say individuals get are migraine headaches, tension headaches or the acute tension type headache, cluster headaches, chronic daily headaches, the ice pick also known as the ice cream headache, sinister headache, etc.

Someone or other we know would surely have experienced migraine headaches. From all the other headache types, this is one that would rarely be missed. More women tend to suffer from it than men. A person with a severe migraine headache could feel nauseated and have instances of vomiting. This would usually continue for the period of the headache, which ranges from around four hours to 3 days.

The acute tension headache is not so severe like the migraine headache. Although it is of a milder version, individuals tend to get it on a monthly basis. The chronic daily headache is another one of the major headache types that can last for around 10 to 15 days a month. If it becomes severe, it could last for months.

The cluster headache is one of the rare headache types that a person could get. The patient with a cluster headache would usually experience a blocked or runny nose, in addition to having puffed up eyes.

The ice pick or the ice cream headache is very much different from the famous headache types we all know. The feelings of pain experienced from this headache is somewhat piercing and lasts only for a short period of time.
A sinister headache is what you should be worrying about if you think you have one. Meningitis could be the reason for it. It is always advisable to get a good check-up before assuming the kind of sickness you may be having.