There are three main types of headaches: tension headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches. Each has different causes and symptoms. Early identification of the type of headache with prompt medical treatment can improve most headaches.
Tension headache
Cause
| · | Most common type |
| · | Headaches caused by abnormal contraction of the muscles outside the skull due to stress and anxiety |
| · | Maintaining a certain posture for extended periods at work can cause certain muscles, especially the back and neck muscles, to be overworked and can cause headaches |
Headache location and severity
| · | Can occur on both sides of the head, such as the forehead, top and back of the head, or in the temples on either side |
| · | The pain is mild to moderate |
Other symptoms
| · | Do not include vomiting or worsening pain from movement or head shaking Common causes |
Common in
| · | Fatigue from work, lack of sleep, excessive stress and pressure, emotional disturbance, or extended computer use |
Migraine
Cause
| · | The cause is unknown, mostly hereditary |
Headache location and severity
| · | May occur on one temple, or may be painful on both sides |
| · | May occur repeatedly, with each headache lasting from 4 to 72 hours |
| · | The pain is moderate to severe |
Other symptoms
| · | Some people may experience signs before the headaches, such as vision issues which include blurriness, discoloured and deformed images, or zigzag-shaped lights appearing around the periphery of the visual field. These symptoms will disappear within approximately half an hour, and a headache would follow that would gradually worsen. |
| · | Throbbing or swelling pain, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound. |
| · | Worsening headaches due to movement, going up and down stairs, or shaking of the head. |
Common in
| · | Women are more likely to suffer from the condition |
Cluster headache
Cause
| · | Rare type |
| · | Unknown cause of headaches |
Headache location and severity
| · | Occurs only around and behind one eye socket, or near the temple |
| · | May occur repeatedly, with each headache lasting from 15 minutes to 3 hours |
| · | The frequency of headaches is very regular and fixed at a certain time or season |
| · | The pain is severe |
Other symptoms
| · | Eye swelling and redness, drooping eyelids, tearing, nasal congestion and runny nose, and other symptoms. |
Common in
| · | Males are more likely to suffer from the condition |
How to relieve symptoms?
Painkillers containing paracetamol can be effective in relieving immediate headaches in a short period of time. Besides, adequate rest and sleep, coupled with appropriate massaging can help relieve tension headaches and migraines. If symptoms persist, please consult your family doctor immediately.
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