7 Types Of Headaches And How To Identify Them?

By Vanshika Gaur
21 Mar 2025, 18:00 IST

Headaches are common pain in the head caused by stress, tension, and other various reasons. They can occur in different areas of the head and are classified into different types. Here are a few types of headaches and how to identify them. Tap to read!

Migraine

A migraine is when you feel throbbing pain on one side of the head. It can be identified by symptoms such as nausea or sensitivity to light or sound.

Allergy Headaches

It can be either a sinus headache or migraine headache. This headache can be identified if you are experiencing pain in the face, around the sinus, in the jaws, and teeth.

Cluster Headaches

This rare headache causes a sharp pain in the head and around the eyes. It can be identified by symptoms like nausea, irritability, restlessness, and sensitivity to light.

Hormone Headaches

These headaches are caused by hormonal fluctuations. Most women experience these headaches while menstruating or after menopause.

Thunderclap Headaches

This headache causes intense pain within minutes and is caused by heavy bleeding around the brain. Seek medical attention immediately if you are experiencing it.

Ice Pick Headaches

Ice pick headaches cause a stabbing pain in the head. It is caused due to an underlying health issue and you must seek medical attention to understand the issue.

Rebound Headaches

Also known as ‘Medication Overuse Headaches’, these occur by taking excessive pain-relieving medications. It can be identified if you experience pain for 15 days a month for at least three months.

Information Credits

According to PubMed, headaches affect 90% of people during their lifetime, migraine being the most common. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you are experiencing any kind of headache.