Got headaches? We’ll help you figure out what’s causing your pain, and what you can do about it. Find out about the three main types of headaches.
Contributed by: Nipun Chhabra, MD
Headaches can be tricky — and frustrating. Whether it’s a dull ache behind your eyes, a steady pressure circling your head or a pounding pain that sends you to a dark, quiet room, not all headaches are created equal. In fact, the three most common types — sinus, tension and migraine headaches — are often mistaken for one another. Understanding the differences can help you find the right treatment and relief faster.
When Nipun Chhabra, MD, sees patients, he starts by asking them about their history and symptoms. It can sometimes be challenging to tell the difference between a sinus headache, tension headache and a migraine headache, says Dr. Chhabra, a rhinologist/sinus specialist and ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor with MetroHealth.
Sinus headaches
Healthy sinuses are filled with air. If the passages get blocked with things (such as allergens, mucus, bacteria and viruses or polyps), the membranes that line them will swell. The thickened membranes put pressure on the sinuses, and that hurts. That painful pressure is usually felt between your eyes, your forehead or around your cheeks, often as a dull or achy sensation. A sinus headache is often accompanied by nasal congestion, discolored mucus, reduced sense of smell or postnasal drip.
For occasional or short bouts of sinus headaches under one week, over-the-counter cold and allergy medications can work to reduce swelling and ease pain. If you notice recurring or lasting sinus headaches that don’t respond to over-the-counter medication, talk to your provider. You may have a sinus infection that can be treated with antibiotics. You may also have chronic sinusitis, which is recurrent facial pressure accompanied by nasal symptoms.
Tension headaches
Tension headaches often cause throbbing pain in your temples (the sides of your face near your eyes) or at the base of your skull. They’re usually linked to neck strain, eye strain, muscle tension or even poor sleep. Grinding your teeth can also cause this type of headache.
The best way to combat a tension headache is usually an over-the-counter pain reliever, plus rest, avoiding excess caffeine and drinking plenty of water.
Migraine headaches
Migraine headaches come with their own list of symptoms; it’s a different type and level of pain. Symptoms can include:
- Light or sound sensitivity
- Nausea
- Visual changes/blurry vision or spots
- Throbbing, sharp or stabbing pain
- Feeling of a vice grip around the scalp
Treatment for migraines varies widely. Some people who have frequent migraines know that certain foods or habits can trigger an episode and avoid those things. Over-the-counter pain relievers can work for some. Keeping a headache diary is helpful, but your best option is to see a healthcare provider for specific advice and treatment options that include prescription medicines.
When to see a provider for headaches
If you’ve had recurring headaches for three months or more, or your headaches are affecting your quality of life, start with a visit to your primary care provider. They will likely ask you a series of questions to see what type of specialist might be able to help, such as an ENT for sinus issues, or a neurologist if migraines are suspected.
There’s no reason to suffer in silence if you have frequent headaches. To make an appointment with a primary care physician, call 216-My-Metro. For an ENT, call 216-778-4381.
