Headache

Abstract

Tension headache:  The most common type among adults and teens, also called stress headaches, chronic daily headaches, or chronic non-progressive headaches. They cause mild to moderate pain and come and go over time. Greater and/or lesser occipital nerve blocks are usually helpful.

Migraines: Often described as pounding, throbbing pain, last from 4 hours to 3 days, 1-4 times per month. Symptoms of sensitivity to light, noise, or smells; nausea or vomiting; loss of appetite; and upset stomach or belly pain may occur.

Cluster headaches: This type is intense and feels like a burning or piercing pain behind the eyes, either throbbing or constant. It’s the least common but the most severe type of headache. The pain can be so bad that most people with cluster headaches can’t sit still. They happen in groups, 1-3 times per day during a cluster period, which may last 2 weeks to 3 months. The headaches may disappear completely (go into “remission”) for months or years, only to come back again.