6 types of headaches and what causes them

Thought all headaches were the same? Think again. There are a surprising number of types of headaches, and each has different causes and symptoms. Knowing what type you have can help you treat it.  

Migraines

More than 4.9 million Australians suffer from migraines, a headache that can cause a severe throbbing or pulsating sensation, usually on one side of your head. It can induce a sensitivity to light, movement, sound and touch, and can lead to pain, nausea, tiredness, numbness and loss of vision, among other symptoms. Migraines can last for hours – sometimes even days. 

While the causes of migraines are not fully understood, both genetic and environmental factors seem to be involved. 

There appear to be a range of triggers, including:

• Genetics: If you have a family member who suffers from migraines, you’re more likely to as well
• Hormonal changes in women: Around pregnancy, menstrual periods and menopause 
• Stress
• Smoking
• Certain drinks: Alcohol and too much caffeine
• Certain foods: Cultured dairy products, baked goods with yeast, chocolate
• Environmental stimuli: Bright or flashing lights, loud sounds and strong smells.

Cluster headaches

As their name suggests, these headaches occur in a group, or cluster – frequent, very painful headaches over weeks or even months, then none for a period of time. They often occur at the same time of day or night, and can impact one side of the head and behind the eye. Like migraines, the exact causes of cluster headaches are not fully understood, but they are more likely in men and have some similar triggers, such as smoking, consumption of alcohol and genetics.  

Sinus headaches

Your sinuses are air-filled spaces in your forehead, cheekbones and behind the bridge of your nose and eyes. When they become congested or inflamed – usually because of an infection, allergic reaction or nasal polyps – they can swell and cause intense pressure and pain. They’re often associated with migraines and other types of headaches. 

Tension headaches

This is the most common type of headache, and can be brought on by things like stress, lack of sleep, poor posture, dehydration, eye strain and dental problems (like grinding your teeth). The main symptom is pain – mild, moderate or intense – on both sides of the head, behind your eyes and in your neck. It can often feel like a tight band around your forehead. 

Thunderclap headaches

These headaches can come out of nowhere, developing in a matter of seconds and causing intense pain that reaches its peak within a minute of onset. The severity of the pain can lead to nausea and vomiting, an altered mental state, fever and even seizures. While they are uncommon, thunderclap headaches can be an indicator of a serious medical condition, including bleeding or a blood clot in the brain, and a severe elevation in blood pressure.  

Pregnancy headaches

Headaches – generally tension or migraine – can be common during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. In fact, research shows that around 40 percent of pregnant women suffer from headaches when pregnant. Some of the causes of headaches during pregnancy are hormonal and weight changes, a higher blood volume, lack of sleep, stress and muscle strain. Some foods can also be a trigger, including dairy, chocolate and products containing yeast.  

If you are experiencing symptoms, you should speak to a doctor to find out the right treatment for you. You can request a telehealth consultation with one of our Australian-registered doctors from anywhere in Australia, seven days a week.

This article was written by Natasha Dragun, who has over 20 years’ experience writing about health and wellness.