A headache is a pain anywhere in the head, face, or neck region, and is often described as a pressure that is constant, dull, sharp, or throbbing. Headaches can vary in respect to severity, location, pain type, and frequency. Headaches are a common condition that most people will experience at various points during their lifetime.

While most headaches are not inherently dangerous, some headaches can be indicators of a significant condition.

Headaches are classified as either primary or secondary. A secondary headache is a head pain that can be attributed to a condition such as a disease, medication, or trauma. By contrast, a primary headache is a dysfunction induced by the pain-sensitive features of the head, rather than a latent condition.

The Four types of primary headaches are as follows:

• Tension headaches
• Migraine headaches
• Cluster headaches
• New daily persistent headaches (NDPH)

It must be noted, however, that primary headaches can also be triggered by a number of lifestyle factors, which include, but are not limited to:

• Alcohol, especially red wine
• Nicotine
• Physical activity
• Poor posture
• Processed, nitrate-rich meats
• Skipping meals
• Sleep changes or lack of sleep
• Straining

Secondary headaches, by contrast, can also be triggered by:

• Overuse of pain medication
• Sinusitis
• Fever
• Stress
• Dehydration

If you have any of these symptoms, you should get medical care right away:

• A new and severe headache
• Headache accompanied by fever, shortness of breath, rash, or a stiff neck
• Headaches that happen after a head injury
• Experiencing a new type of headache after age 55

Scans and other imaging tests are not useful in diagnosing migraines, cluster headaches, or tension headaches.

However, if your provider determines that such headaches are linked to another medical condition, a CT scan or MRI could help decide if the underlying issue lies in your central nervous system. These tests reveal cross-sectional images of your brain that can reveal any abnormalities.

Occasional, mild headaches can be treated at home with over-the-counter pain relievers. Other treatments include:

• Application of hot or cold packs to the head
• Stretching exercises
• Resting in a dark, quiet room
• Massaging of the temples, neck, or back
• Going for a walk

Headache disorders are quite common. It is estimated that 50% of adults worldwide have had a headache disorder at least once within this past year.

If you have experienced one of the following symptoms, you should consult your provider:

• Experiencing one or more headaches per week. 
• Experiencing headaches that get progressively worse, and don’t abate. 
• Needing to take ibuprofren or other pain relievers daily to manage your headaches.
• Requiring more than two to three doses of over-the-counter medications each week to treat headache symptoms. 
• Experiencing headaches that are triggered by exertion, bending, coughing or other strenuous activity.
• History of headaches, but a recent shift in your symptoms.