---
title: "Types of Headaches: Symptoms, Causes and When to Get Help"
description: "The main types of headaches, including tension, migraine, cluster, sinus and medication overuse: how each feels, how long it lasts and when to get help."
canonical_url: "https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches"
md_url: "https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches.md"
last_updated: "2026-11-02"
language: en
---

# Types of Headaches: Symptoms, Causes and When to Get Help

There are more than 150 types of headache, but most people only ever need to know a handful. Here is how the common ones feel, how long they last, what can help and when to get help fast.

![](https://junocompanion.com/_vercel/image?q=75&url=%2Fwebsite-assets%2Fmarshall-gould-headshot-v1.jpg&w=480)

Published by [Marshall Gould](https://junocompanion.com/authors/marshall-gould)

Published 2 November 2026Updated 2 November 20268 min read

![A woman sits on a bed in a dim room, in silhouette, with light coming through the shutters behind lace curtains.](https://junocompanion.com/_vercel/image?q=75&url=%2Fwebsite-assets%2Fjuno-blog-lupus-flare-ups-curtained-bedroom.webp&w=2048)

## Quick answer

The main types of headache are tension, migraine and cluster, plus secondary headaches caused by something else, such as sinusitis, dehydration or taking painkillers too often. Tension headaches are the most common. Call 911, 999 or your local emergency number for a sudden, extremely painful headache, or one with weakness, confusion or vision loss.

-   [Free printable headache checklist: what to note for your doctorNo sign-up](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#headache-diary-checklist)

## Key takeaways

-   Primary headaches, such as tension, migraine and cluster, are the condition itself. Secondary headaches are a symptom of something else, such as sinusitis or medication overuse
-   Tension headaches usually press on both sides of the head. Migraine usually throbs, often on one side, with nausea or sensitivity to light and sound. Cluster headaches cause severe pain around one eye
-   Taking painkillers too often can cause more headaches. The risk starts at about 10 to 15 days a month, depending on the medicine
-   Headache on at least 15 days a month for over three months, with migraine symptoms on at least 8 of those days, is called chronic migraine
-   Call 911, 999 or your local emergency number for a sudden, extremely painful headache, or a headache with weakness, numbness, confusion, trouble speaking, vision loss, a seizure or a recent head injury

## What are the main types of headache?

Doctors sort headaches into two groups. [\[3\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-3) Primary headaches are the condition itself: pain-sensitive parts of the head are overactive or not working as they should. Secondary headaches are a symptom of something else, such as an infection or a medicine. There are more than 150 types in total. [\[3\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-3)

These are the three primary headaches people most often ask about:

| Type | What it feels like | How long it lasts |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Tension | Pressure or tightness on both sides of the head, face or neck, often like a band around the head. You can usually carry on with daily activities [\[2\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-2) [\[4\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-4) | Usually at least 30 minutes, and sometimes several days [\[4\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-4) |
| Migraine | Throbbing pain, often on one side, that can get worse when you move. Often comes with nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound. Some people get aura first, such as zigzag lines or flashing lights [\[6\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-6) | Usually 4 hours to 3 days [\[6\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-6) |
| Cluster | Sharp, burning or piercing pain, usually around one eye. You may feel restless and need to move. The eye can water and turn red, and that side of the nose can be blocked or runny [\[5\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-5) | 15 minutes to 3 hours, and can happen several times a day for weeks or months [\[5\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-5) |

Tension headaches are the most common type. [\[14\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-14) Cluster headaches are much rarer, affecting fewer than 1 in 1,000 adults. [\[2\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-2)

## What other types of headache are there?

These headaches usually have a clear cause or trigger:

| Type | What is behind it | What to know |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Medication overuse (rebound) | Taking painkillers or migraine medicines too often [\[2\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-2) [\[7\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-7) | Happens on more days than not, feels heavy and is often worst on waking. It is the most common secondary headache [\[2\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-2) |
| Sinus | Sinusitis, which is common after a cold or flu [\[8\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-8) | Pain and tenderness around the cheeks, eyes or forehead, with a blocked or runny nose. Sinusitis usually clears within 4 weeks [\[8\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-8) |
| Hormone | Periods or menopause [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1) | Period-linked migraine typically starts from about 2 days before a period up to day 3 [\[10\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-10) |
| Dehydration | Not drinking enough fluid [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1) | Usually settles once you have had enough to drink [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1) [\[3\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-3) |
| Hunger | Skipped or irregular meals [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1) [\[3\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-3) | Regular meals can help prevent it [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1) |
| Caffeine withdrawal | Stopping or delaying caffeine after having more than 200 mg a day for over 2 weeks [\[13\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-13) | Starts within 24 hours of your last caffeine. It clears within 7 days without caffeine, or within an hour of having some [\[13\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-13) |
| Exercise and cough | Physical activity, or coughing, sneezing and straining [\[3\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-3) | The NHS advises an urgent appointment if a headache is set off or made worse by these [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1) |
| Thunderclap | Can be caused by bleeding around the brain or other serious problems, though sometimes no cause is found [\[9\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-9) | Reaches full strength within about a minute. Always needs emergency care [\[3\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-3) [\[9\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-9) |

Other everyday causes include stress, poor posture, eyesight problems, drinking too much alcohol, and colds or flu. [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1)

## How can you tell which type of headache you have?

Where it hurts and what comes with it can give clues. These patterns are a starting point for a conversation with your doctor, not a diagnosis:

-   Both sides, pressing or tight, and you can carry on with your day: often a tension headache [\[4\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-4)
-   Throbbing on one side, worse when you move, with nausea or sensitivity to light and sound: often migraine [\[4\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-4) [\[6\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-6)
-   Severe pain around one eye, starting and stopping quickly, and you cannot sit still: often a cluster headache [\[5\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-5)
-   Around the cheeks, eyes or forehead, with a blocked nose after a cold: often sinusitis [\[8\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-8)
-   Most days, heavy, worst when you wake up, and you take painkillers often: possibly medication overuse [\[2\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-2) [\[7\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-7)
-   Happens when you are upright: possibly an orthostatic headache, which is common in POTS [\[12\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-12)

About 30% of people with POTS get headaches when they are upright, and many also get migraine-type headaches. [\[12\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-12) Our guide on [how POTS is diagnosed](https://junocompanion.com/blog/appointments-and-advocacy/pots-diagnosis) explains the tests.

## Why do headaches keep coming back?

See a doctor if you get headaches regularly, if they are getting worse, or if treating them yourself is not helping. [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1) These are three common patterns:

-   **Chronic migraine.** This means a headache on at least 15 days a month for at least 3 months, with migraine symptoms on at least 8 of those days. [\[11\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-11) It can improve: roughly 1 in 4 people find their attacks become less frequent within 2 years [\[11\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-11)
-   **Medication overuse.** Using painkillers too often can keep headaches going. The table below shows the usual limits. [\[7\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-7)
-   **Your cycle.** As many as two-thirds of women with migraine may have attacks linked to their periods. The Migraine Trust suggests keeping a diary of attacks and period days for at least 3 months [\[10\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-10)

| Medicine | Can cause overuse headache if used on |
| --- | --- |
| Paracetamol (acetaminophen) and anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen | 15 or more days a month [\[7\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-7) |
| Triptans, ergotamines, opioids such as codeine, and combination painkillers | 10 or more days a month [\[7\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-7) |

Diagnosis usually needs at least 3 months of regular use. [\[7\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-7) Talk to your doctor before you stop or cut down, and agree a plan. Headaches often get worse for a while as you stop, and the right way to stop depends on the medicine. [\[7\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-7)

## What helps a headache?

For an everyday headache, the NHS suggests: [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1)

-   Drink plenty of water
-   Rest if you also have a cold or flu
-   Try to relax, as stress can make headaches worse
-   Take paracetamol (acetaminophen) or ibuprofen
-   Do not skip meals, even if you are not hungry
-   Do not sleep much longer than usual, as this can make a headache worse
-   Avoid alcohol and long stretches of screen time

To lower the risk of medication overuse, the Migraine Trust suggests using painkillers on no more than 2 days a week. [\[7\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-7) Do not give aspirin to children under 16. [\[4\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-4) A pharmacist can help you choose a painkiller. [\[4\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-4)

The best treatment depends on the type:

-   Tension: painkillers, relaxation such as exercise, yoga or massage, better sleep and less caffeine. A low, firm pillow and heat or cold packs can help neck pain [\[4\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-4)
-   Migraine: see a doctor if attacks are severe, happen more than once a week or are hard to control [\[6\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-6)
-   Cluster: painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen do not work. See a doctor, as treatments include triptans and oxygen [\[5\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-5)
-   Caffeine withdrawal: the headache usually passes on its own within 7 days [\[13\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-13)

## What should you note for your doctor?

The NHS says a headache diary can help you spot what sets your headaches off. [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1) Notes made at the time are easier to trust than a story told from memory weeks later.

### What to note about your headaches

Tick what you have. Print it and take it with you.

#### Each headache

-   The date, and when it started and stopped
-   Where it hurts: one side, both sides, behind one eye
-   What it feels like: throbbing, pressing or sharp
-   How bad it gets, and what it stopped you doing

#### Other symptoms

-   Nausea or vomiting
-   Sensitivity to light or sound
-   Vision changes, tingling or trouble speaking before it started
-   A watering eye, or a blocked or runny nose on one side
-   Whether it changes when you stand up or lie down

#### Background

-   Sleep, meals, drinks and caffeine that day
-   Where you are in your period, if you have them
-   Every medicine you take for it, and how many days a month
-   Any new medicines or a recent head injury

This list cannot tell you what type of headache you have. It helps you give your doctor a clear picture.

The free [trigger tracker](https://junocompanion.com/free-resources-and-worksheets/trigger-tracker) gives you a simple page to compare attacks, and the [appointment one-pager](https://junocompanion.com/free-resources-and-worksheets/appointment-one-pager) helps you put it all on one sheet.

Juno can help too. You tell Juno about a headache by text or voice, and it keeps a dated log you can share with your doctor. Juno does not diagnose the cause of headaches. See the [migraine tracker](https://junocompanion.com/chronic-illness-support/migraines) page for an example.

## When is a headache an emergency?

Most headaches are not dangerous. A headache that is sudden, severe or unlike any you have had before is different, even if you already get migraine.

### Call 911 (US), 999 (UK) or your local emergency number, or go to the ER or A&E, if you or a child has a headache with:

-   sudden, extremely painful onset, or the worst headache of your life [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1) [\[15\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-15)
-   a seizure [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1)
-   numbness or weakness in the body or face [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1)
-   trouble speaking, balancing, walking or remembering things [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1)
-   drowsiness or confusion [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1)
-   loss of vision [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1)
-   a head injury in the last 3 months [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1)
-   a very high temperature, a stiff neck or sensitivity to bright light [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1) [\[15\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-15)
-   a rash that does not fade when you roll a glass over it [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1)
-   a drooping eyelid or a smaller pupil in one eye for the first time [\[5\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-5)

Do not drive yourself. Ask someone to take you or call an ambulance, and bring any medicines you take. [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1)

Other emergency numbers: 911 in Canada, 000 in Australia, 111 in New Zealand, 112 in the EU and India.

If none of those apply, get a same-day appointment, or call NHS 111 in the UK, if: [\[1\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-1)

-   the headache comes with vision or eye problems, or with vomiting
-   it is set off or made worse by coughing, sneezing, bending over or exercise
-   you have jaw pain when eating or a sore, tender scalp
-   a child’s headache is getting worse or wakes them at night
-   you or a child has any other symptoms you are worried about
-   a migraine attack lasts longer than 72 hours, or aura lasts longer than 1 hour [\[6\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-6)
-   you have a migraine attack while pregnant or just after having a baby [\[6\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-6)

Also get medical care right away for a new type of headache after age 55. [\[3\]](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches#source-3)

## Frequently asked questions

### What are the main types of headaches?

The most common primary headaches are tension, migraine and cluster. Secondary headaches are a symptom of something else, such as sinusitis, dehydration or medication overuse. There are more than 150 types in total, and tension headaches are the most common.

### How do I know what type of headache I have?

Note where it hurts, what it feels like, how long it lasts and what comes with it. Pressing pain on both sides suggests tension. Throbbing with nausea suggests migraine. Severe pain around one eye suggests cluster. A doctor can confirm the type, so bring your notes.

### What is the difference between a migraine and a tension headache?

A tension headache feels like pressure on both sides of the head, and you can usually carry on with your day. Migraine usually throbs, often on one side, gets worse when you move, and often comes with nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.

### How often can I take painkillers for headaches?

The Migraine Trust suggests no more than 2 days a week. Overuse headaches can start with paracetamol or anti-inflammatories on 15 or more days a month, or triptans, opioids and combination painkillers on 10 or more. Talk to your doctor before stopping.

### Can POTS cause headaches?

Yes. PoTS UK says about 30% of people with POTS get orthostatic headaches, which happen when you are upright and may be linked to lower blood flow to the brain. Many people with POTS also get migraine-type headaches. Mention this pattern to your doctor.

### When is a headache an emergency?

Call 911, 999 or your local emergency number for a sudden, extremely painful headache, or a headache with a seizure, weakness, numbness, confusion, trouble speaking, vision loss, a stiff neck with a high temperature, or a recent head injury. Do not drive yourself to the hospital.

## Tools that go with this article

-   [Free trigger tracker](https://junocompanion.com/free-resources-and-worksheets/trigger-tracker)
-   [Free appointment one-pager](https://junocompanion.com/free-resources-and-worksheets/appointment-one-pager)
-   [Migraine tracker](https://junocompanion.com/chronic-illness-support/migraines)

## Sources

1.  [NHS: Headaches](https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/headaches/)
2.  [World Health Organization: Headache disorders](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/headache-disorders)
3.  [Cleveland Clinic: Headaches](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9639-headaches)
4.  [NHS: Tension headaches](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/tension-headaches/)
5.  [NHS: Cluster headaches](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cluster-headaches/)
6.  [NHS: Symptoms of migraine](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/migraine/symptoms/)
7.  [The Migraine Trust: Medication overuse headache](https://migrainetrust.org/understand-migraine/types-of-migraine/medication-overuse-headache/)
8.  [NHS: Sinusitis](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sinusitis-sinus-infection/)
9.  [American Migraine Foundation: Thunderclap headaches](https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/thunderclap-headaches)
10.  [The Migraine Trust: Menstrual migraine](https://migrainetrust.org/understand-migraine/types-of-migraine/menstrual-migraine/)
11.  [The Migraine Trust: Chronic migraine](https://migrainetrust.org/understand-migraine/types-of-migraine/chronic-migraine/)
12.  [PoTS UK: Symptoms](https://www.potsuk.org/about-pots/symptoms/)
13.  [International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-3): 8.3.1 Caffeine-withdrawal headache](https://ichd-3.org/8-headache-attributed-to-a-substance-or-its-withdrawal/8-3-headache-attributed-to-substance-withdrawal/8-3-1-caffeine-withdrawal-headache/)
14.  [MedlinePlus: Headache](https://medlineplus.gov/headache.html)
15.  [MedlinePlus: Cluster headache](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000786.htm)

## Turn day-to-day notes into a clearer health story

Juno helps you track symptoms through conversation, notice patterns, and prepare a structured summary for appointments. [Explore Juno’s migraine tracker.](https://junocompanion.com/chronic-illness-support/migraines) [Download Juno on the App Store.](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/juno-chronic-illness-support/id6749455368)

[Back to Symptom tracking](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking)

This article is for general information only and does not replace advice from your own clinician. Juno is a health assistant, not a medical provider.

Last updated 2 November 2026

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---

Source: [Types of Headaches: Symptoms, Causes and When to Get Help](https://junocompanion.com/blog/symptom-tracking/types-of-headaches)