Understanding Headaches: Common Types, Triggers, and When to Worry
Headaches are one of the most common health complaints seen in primary care. If you’ve noticed you’re getting headaches more frequently—especially daily or near-daily—you are not alone.
A 42-year-old woman recently presented to our clinic with a three-week history of daily headaches. She described a dull, tightening pressure across her forehead and temples. Her work had been stressful, she was sleeping poorly, and the pain worsened late in the afternoon after long hours on the computer.
She denied nausea, vomiting, visual changes, or light sensitivity. Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen provided partial relief, but she was worried something serious might be wrong.
While most headaches are benign, they can significantly impair quality of life, productivity, mood, and sleep.
Understanding the type of headache, and triggers is essential for effective treatment and prevention.
Why Am I Getting So Many Headaches Lately?
An increase in headache frequency is commonly linked to lifestyle changes, physical strain, stress, or environmental factors. In many cases, multiple triggers occur simultaneously.
Common reasons include:
Increased stress or anxiety
Poor sleep or insomnia
Dehydration
Excessive screen time
Muscle tension in the neck and shoulders
Skipped meals or blood sugar fluctuations
Hormonal changes
Caffeine overuse or withdrawal
Illness or viral infections
Alcohol use
Most Common Types of Headaches
Tension Headaches (Most Common)
Tension headaches account for the majority of recurrent headaches.
What they feel like:
Dull, aching pressure
Tight “band-like” sensation around the head
Forehead or temple pain
Mild to moderate intensity
Often worse later in the day
Migraines
Migraines are headaches that can be disabling.
What they feel like:
Moderate to severe throbbing pain
Usually one-sided
Nausea and/or vomiting
Sensitivity to light, sound, or smell
Pain worsens with activity
May last from hours to days
Some individuals experience visual disturbances (aura) before the headache begins.
Cluster Headaches
Less common and often occur at the same time of day.
What they feel like:
Severe, piercing pain around one eye
Occur in clusters over weeks or months
Eye redness and tearing
Nasal congestion on the affected side
Sinus Headaches
Usually associated with sinus inflammation or infection.
What they feel like:
Pressure in the forehead, cheeks, or around the eyes
Facial tenderness
Nasal congestion
Pain worsens when bending forward
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the headache.
Immediate Relief
Hydration
Rest in a quiet, dark room
Cold or warm compress
Gentle neck stretching
Over-the-counter medications (acetaminophen, NSAIDs when appropriate)
For frequent or severe headaches, a healthcare provider may recommend prescription medications or preventive therapies.
When to Worry: Red Flags That Need Medical Attention
Seek prompt medical evaluation if a headache:
Is sudden and severe (“worst headache of your life”)
Occurs after a head injury
Is accompanied by fever, stiff neck, confusion, or vision loss
Causes weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking
Becomes progressively worse over time
Is a new onset after age 50
Occurs in individuals with cancer or immune suppression
The Bottom Line
While headaches are extremely common, they are not something you simply have to “live with.” Understanding the underlying cause allows for targeted treatment and meaningful prevention.
If headaches are frequent, severe, or interfering with daily life, seek out the guidance from a healthcare provider. Medical evaluation can help rule out serious conditions and create a more personalized management plan.