Headaches

What Are Headaches?

A headache is a condition that causes pain or pressure in the head or neck. Headaches can range from mild to severe and may occur occasionally or on a regular basis.

There are many different types of headaches. The most common include:

• Tension headaches, which often feel like a tight band around the head
  
• Migraines, which can cause throbbing pain and sensitivity to light or sound
  
• Sinus headaches, which are linked to sinus pressure and congestion

Some people experience headaches occasionally, while others may have frequent or chronic headaches that affect daily life.

Most headaches are not dangerous, but understanding the type of headache and its cause can help guide treatment and prevention.

What Causes Headaches?

Headaches can develop for many reasons. Some are related to lifestyle factors, while others may be linked to medical conditions.

Common causes of headaches include:

Stress and tension
Stress is one of the most common triggers of tension headaches, leading to tight muscles in the head and neck.

Dehydration
Not drinking enough water can lead to headaches and worsen symptoms throughout the day.

Lack of sleep
Poor sleep or changes in sleep patterns can trigger both tension headaches and migraines.

Illness or infection
Colds, flu or sinus infections may cause sinus headaches due to pressure in the face and forehead.

Migraine triggers
Certain foods, hormonal changes, bright lights or strong smells can trigger migraine headaches in some people.

Eye strain
Spending long periods looking at screens can lead to headaches and discomfort.

Caffeine use or withdrawal
Too much caffeine or suddenly stopping caffeine can cause headaches.

Underlying medical conditions
In some cases, headaches may be linked to conditions such as high blood pressure, head injury or neurological disorders.

Sometimes, headaches may have more than one trigger.

Signs and Symptoms Associated with Headaches

Headache symptoms can vary depending on the type and cause.

Common symptoms include:

• Dull, aching head pain
• Pressure or tightness across the forehead or sides of the head
• Throbbing or pulsing pain (common with migraines)
• Pain behind the eyes or in the face
• Sensitivity to light, sound or smells
• Nausea or dizziness (often with migraines)
• Sinus pressure or nasal congestion

Some headaches last only a short time, while others can last for hours or even days.

Seek medical attention if headaches are severe, sudden or different from usual patterns.

How Are Headaches Evaluated?

Diagnosing headaches starts with understanding the severity and possible triggers.

Diagnostic steps may include:

Medical history
A health care provider will ask how often headaches occur, what they feel like and what might have triggered them.

Physical and neurological exam
This may include checking vision, coordination and reflexes.

Headache tracking
Keeping a headache diary can help identify patterns or triggers such as foods, stress or sleep habits.

Imaging tests
In some cases, tests such as a CT scan or MRI may be used to rule out underlying conditions.

The goal is to determine the type of headache and its cause so that the most effective treatment can be recommended.

How Are Headaches Treated?

Treatment for headaches depends on the type, cause and frequency of symptoms.

At-Home Headache Relief

Many mild headaches can be managed with simple strategies:

• Drinking plenty of water
• Resting in a quiet, dark room
• Applying a cold or warm compress to the head or neck
• Practicing relaxation techniques to reduce stress

Medications

Common headache treatments include:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Medications specifically for migraine relief
• Preventive medications for people with frequent or chronic headaches

Medical Treatment

For ongoing or severe headaches, a health care provider may recommend:

• Prescription medications
• Lifestyle changes to reduce triggers
• Treatment of underlying conditions such as sinus infections or high blood pressure

How to Reduce the Risk of Headaches

While not all headaches can be prevented, healthy habits can help reduce how often they occur.

Helpful prevention tips include:

• Staying well hydrated
• Getting enough sleep each night
• Managing stress through relaxation or exercise
• Limiting screen time and taking breaks
• Avoiding known headache triggers such as certain foods or caffeine changes
• Maintaining a regular daily routine

Tracking symptoms can also help identify patterns and prevent future headaches.

Headaches are common and often manageable, but frequent, severe or worsening headaches should not be ignored.

Seek medical care if you experience:

• Sudden, severe headache
• Headaches after a head injury
• Headaches with vision changes, confusion or weakness
• Chronic headaches that interfere with daily activities

If you have concerns about headache causes, symptoms or treatment options, a health care provider can help guide you toward the right care plan.

At Riverside Health, we're dedicated to compassionate, collaborative care. We provide a wide range of services, from childbirth to end-of-life care, delivering over 2 million services each year. Our integrated network allows us to support you seamlessly through health, illness, recovery, and wellness. With top clinicians and advanced technology, we’re here for you at convenient locations close to home and work. Visit riversideonline.com.

If you’re wondering where the best place is to get care, please see our guide below:

If your problem is life- or limb-threatening, call 911 or go to the emergency room.

Primary Care – Schedule through MyChart or call your provider’s office who you go to for most health care needs.

Virtual Clinic – Schedule through MyChart or click Here to learn more about Primary Care On Demand.

Urgent Care – Click Here to find a location near you for after-hours care or when your primary care provider is not available. Open 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Mon-Sun.

Sports Medicine Hotline – Call 757-534-6767, 7 a.m.-10 p.m., 7 days a week to schedule an appointment with a sports medicine specialist. Same day/next day availability in most cases.

If you’re not sure, call Riverside Nurse 24/7 at 1-800-675-6368.