What kind of headache do i have
Searched over 200M research papers
Summary
10 papers analyzed
These studies suggest that you may have a primary headache disorder, such as a migraine or tension-type headache, but a specific diagnosis would require a detailed clinical evaluation.
Not a yes or no question
To use the Consensus Meter, try asking a simple yes or no question
Research summarized with Copilot
Beta19 papers analyzed
Understanding Your Headache: Types and Symptoms
Headaches are a common ailment, but their causes and characteristics can vary widely. Understanding the type of headache you have is crucial for effective treatment. This article will help you identify the kind of headache you might be experiencing by summarizing key research findings on different headache types.
Migraine Headaches: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Key Characteristics of Migraine
Migraines are a prevalent type of headache, affecting 18% of women and 6% of men. They are often severe enough to disrupt daily activities and are characterized by several distinct features. Migraines typically present as unilateral (one-sided) and pulsatile (throbbing) headaches that last between 4 to 72 hours if untreated. They are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound .
Diagnostic Criteria
The "POUND" mnemonic is a helpful tool for identifying migraines:
- Pulsatile quality
- One-day duration (lasting 4-72 hours)
- Unilateral location
- Nausea or vomiting
- Disabling intensity
If you have three of these five symptoms, you are likely experiencing a migraine; four or more make it highly likely.
Prodrome and Aura
Migraines can also be preceded by prodrome symptoms such as mood changes, food cravings, and fatigue, occurring up to 24 hours before the headache. Aura symptoms, which include visual disturbances and sensory changes, occur in about 15-20% of migraine sufferers .
Tension-Type Headaches: Common and Mild
Key Characteristics of Tension-Type Headaches
Tension-type headaches (TTH) are the most common form of headache. They are usually bilateral (affecting both sides of the head) and are described as a feeling of tightness or pressure around the head. Unlike migraines, TTH are not typically associated with nausea or vomiting and are generally milder in intensity .
Diagnostic Criteria
TTH are diagnosed based on the absence of the more severe symptoms seen in migraines. They are often linked to stress and can be chronic, occurring frequently over a long period .
Cluster Headaches: Intense and Unilateral
Key Characteristics of Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches are less common but extremely severe. They are characterized by intense, unilateral pain, often around the eye, and can be accompanied by symptoms like tearing, nasal congestion, and restlessness. These headaches occur in clusters, with multiple attacks over a period of weeks or months, followed by remission periods .
Diagnostic Criteria
Cluster headaches are part of a group known as trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias, which involve the trigeminal nerve and autonomic symptoms. They are diagnosed based on their unique pattern and associated symptoms .
Chronic Daily Headaches: Persistent and Varied
Key Characteristics of Chronic Daily Headaches
Chronic daily headaches (CDH) can be a result of transformed migraines, chronic TTH, or other headache disorders. They are defined by the frequency of headaches, occurring 15 or more days per month for at least three months. CDH can be particularly challenging to diagnose and treat due to their persistent nature .
Diagnostic Criteria
CDH are classified based on their frequency and duration. They can include transformed migraines, which evolve from episodic migraines, and chronic TTH, which are persistent and less severe.
Conclusion
Identifying the type of headache you have is the first step towards effective treatment. Migraines, tension-type headaches, cluster headaches, and chronic daily headaches each have distinct characteristics and diagnostic criteria. If you experience severe, frequent, or unusual headaches, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Understanding your symptoms and their patterns can significantly aid in managing and alleviating your headache pain.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
