Common symptoms
Head pain
Dull pressure, tightening, or throbbing pain in the head
Neck tension
Stiffness or tightness in the neck and shoulder muscles
Nausea
Upset stomach sensation that may accompany severe headaches
Light sensitivity
Discomfort or worsening pain when exposed to bright light
Sound sensitivity
Ordinary sounds feel overwhelming or painful during a headache
Headaches are broadly classified into primary types (tension, migraine, cluster) and secondary types caused by another condition. Tension headaches feel like a tight band around the head; migraines cause throbbing pain often on one side; sinus headaches are associated with pressure and congestion.
The intensity and duration of a headache episode varies by type. Migraines can last 4 to 72 hours if untreated. Tension headaches typically respond well to OTC analgesics and rest within a few hours.
Many people experience fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or mild residual head tenderness after a significant headache episode resolves. Identifying and avoiding personal triggers reduces future recurrence.