Identifying and Diagnosing What Type of Headache You Have

Pain in your head and neck can be caused by numerous types of headaches. Each one has specific identifiers that can help you figure out what kind you're suffering from.

Types of Headaches & Diagnosis

• Sinus headaches cause pain in the sinuses, behind your eyebrows and cheekbones. They can be confused with migraines because of similar pain points and symptoms, like worse pain when you bend over.
• Tension headaches hurt around the skull like someone is squeezing the entire outside of your skull.
• Cluster headaches cause pain behind one of your eyes and other spots on that same side of your head.
• Migraines are painful on one side of the head or face. They usually start in one spot and spread as the headache gets worse.
• Headaches can also be caused by eye strain and muscle tension from the overuse of your electronic devices. Pain and discomfort are most common in your eyes and in the back of your head and neck.

What Type of Headache Do You Have?

Identify the type of headache you have by noticing the spots where your pain is most severe. You should also pay attention to what you were eating, drinking and doing right before your headache started. Were you watching a video on your computer, tablet or mobile phone? You may have a headache from too much screen time or a tension headache. If you've been sick or have allergies, a sinus headache could be the result of that. Some foods can trigger migraines, along with dehydration, so if you experience them frequently it may be a good idea to track your meals, snacks and water intake, along with headache.

When You Should See A Doctor

You should see a doctor if you have a headache that worsens over 24 hours, if the pain is so severe you miss out on activities, or if it begins right after physical activity. Severe headaches can be a cause for concern, especially if you don't get them often or if they happen along with vomiting, nausea and fever.