Your Headaches Are Trying To Tell You Something About Your Health

Everyone gets a headache at some point, but sometimes they are too strong to put off. While not every single person suffers from strong headaches (lucky!), there are those that do. Having a headache usually isn't something that's fun, so we usually pop an Advil and just wait for it to pass. What becomes important is distinguishing different types of headaches and knowing when to pay attention to them. Certain headaches can indicate something is wrong with your health.

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Tension Headaches

Tension headaches are generally nothing to worry about. In fact, they're the most common type. For the most part, (if it's not causing serious pain) you can take some kind of painkiller and just continue with your day.

Migraines

Migraines are generally moderate to severe in pain and can last for relatively long periods of time (four hours to three days). For most people, they won't frequently occur, though the exact reason as to why they do isn't very well known (genetics and environmental factors play a role).

Cluster Headaches

Cluster headaches are considered to be the most severe and least common of the headache types. Their pain is so intense that sufferers are usually unable to sit still. The pain generally occurs behind or in the eye and feels like it has a burning or piercing quality that is constantly throbbing.

Sinus Headaches

Sinus headaches are the result of an inflamed sinus (likely because you're sick or have allergies). The pain regions include the bridge of the nose, the forehead, and cheekbones. 

Hormone Headaches

These headaches are often specific to women as they occur during periods of hormonal change (menstruation, menopause, and pregnancy). Birth control pills can also cause these headaches.

So, when should you start worrying?

Well, there are multiple signs that you should seek medical attention. It's often not best to leave things to chance.

It awakens you from your sleep

If your headaches are waking you up, then you should see a doctor. This is a pretty unusual symptom, so it's worth getting checked out.

The pain is strongest at its onset

This is sometimes referred to as a "thunderclap." If the pain is the most severe right off the bat, then there's probably something wrong. 

It's accompanied by other problems

If your headache is causing additional problems, such as a loss of vision, numbness, or anything unusual, then it's a hint that something is off.

You have a headache, but it's different

If your headache isn't like your usual headaches, then that's another reason to be worried. Remember, you can never be overly cautious when it comes to your health.

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Main and collage image via Urbandale Patch