Head cold

Headache is a common symptom experienced by individuals worldwide. It is characterized by a sensation of pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck. Headaches can be classified into three main types: primary headaches, secondary headaches, and cranial neuralgias, each with distinct causes and treatments.

Primary Headaches

Primary headaches are stand-alone illnesses caused directly by the overactivity of, or problems with, structures in the head that are pain-sensitive. This category includes migraines, tension-type headaches, and cluster headaches. They are not symptomatic of another condition.

Migraines

Migraines are a type of primary headache characterized by recurrent episodes of severe headache, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. The exact cause of migraines is unknown, but they are thought to be related to changes in the brain and influenced by genetic factors.

Tension-type Headaches

Tension-type headaches are the most common type of primary headache. They are often described as a constant pressure, as if the head is being squeezed in a vise. The pain is usually mild to moderate and affects both sides of the head.

Cluster Headaches

Cluster headaches are a rare type of primary headache. They occur in cyclical patterns or clusters and are one of the most painful types of headache. The pain is usually severe and located around one eye.

Secondary Headaches

Secondary headaches are symptoms that occur when another condition stimulates the pain-sensitive nerves of the head. Numerous different conditions can cause secondary headaches, including sinusitis, meningitis, and subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Cranial Neuralgias

Cranial neuralgias are a group of headaches that occur because the nerves in the head and upper neck become inflamed. The most well-known is trigeminal neuralgia, which affects the trigeminal nerve, one of the most widely distributed nerves in the head.

Treatment

Treatment for headaches depends on the type and severity of the headache and can range from over-the-counter pain relievers to prescription medications. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as stress management and dietary changes can also help manage headaches.

See Also

• Migraine
• Tension-type headache
• Cluster headache
• Trigeminal neuralgia