The three most common types of primary headache and their symptoms are:

1. Tension headache. This causes mild to moderate aching pain that often feels as though there’s a tight band around the head. You could also experience tenderness on the shoulders, neck, forehead, or scalp. Tension headaches can be episodic or chronic.
2. Cluster headache. This type usually occurs on one side of the face at a time and can feel as though it’s behind the eye. The headaches usually cause severe pain that happen in clusters, so one headache may be resolved and another follows not too long after, causing as many as four headaches during the same day.
3. Migraine. This is characterized by intense pulsing deep in the head and can remain for several days. They can be completely debilitating and limit your capability to perform your usual daily routine. Migraines can cause sensitivity to light and sound, as well as vomiting or nausea.

The three most common types of secondary headaches and their symptoms are:

1. Sinus headache. This type causes feelings of deep pain in the areas of the face that have sinuses, so the nose, cheeks, or forehead. It occurs due to inflammation of the sinuses and can also be accompanied by symptoms such as a fever, swollen face, or runny nose. A sinus headache can often be the result of allergies or a sinus infection.
2. Hormone headache. This headache is most common in women, due to their natural hormone fluctuations and can be the result of changes related to menstruation, birth control methods, or pregnancy.
3. Exertion headaches. This headache pain is the result of any intense physical activity. It occurs when the blood vessels swell in order to supply more blood to the muscles when exercising. It can happen during the active period, or directly afterward and last for several hours.

Yes, likelihood of headaches can be triggered by the following factors:

• Stress
• Dehydration
• Hormone fluctuations
• Fasting
• Sleep deprivation
• Genetics
• Magnesium deficiency

The following practices can help to prevent a headache, including:

• Eliminate any known triggers
• Stay hydrated
• Take magnesium supplements
• Aim to get 7-9 hours sleep every night
• Use peppermint or lavender essential oils
• Get an eye test

It is not necessary to visit a doctor unless you are experiencing severe headache pain or are suffering from headaches on a regular basis. However, headaches can be the symptom of a serious condition, so it is important to seek help if your symptoms are different to any headache you have experienced before or you have had headache pain for multiple days during the course of a month.

Also see a doctor if your headache is accompanied by:

• Fainting
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Trouble walking, speaking, or with vision
• Fever
• Numbness

Headaches are usually not serious. However, they can indicate more serious health concerns such as:

• Stroke
• Brain aneurysm
• High blood pressure
• Brain tumour bran abscess

Very! Research from the World Health Organization, states that 1 in every 20 adults has a headache nearly every day.

The most common over the counter (OTC) treatment is using Advil (ibuprofen) which works to reduce the inflammation and pain.

A doctor may prescribe prescription medication if OTC options are not working. Alternative treatment methods include:

• Physical or massage therapy to treat any muscular tension issues.
• Botox can be used for treating migraines through blocking pain transmission signals.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy to increase coping methods and assist with relaxation techniques.
• Surgical decompression may be used in severe cases to release pressure around the head.
• Chiropractic therapy to focus on spinal manipulation to relieve tension.
• Acupuncture to promote energy flow and pain relief.

To ensure the physician can provide an accurate diagnosis during your appointment, you can help by noting down any concerns and answers in advance, along with any allergies they should be aware of.

Appointments usually take between five to thirty minutes depending on the individual need. The online doctor will ask for a description of your symptoms. This will allow them to determine the best course of treatment. If necessary, they may recommend a follow-up appointment or a visit to a physical clinic.