1 of 5 / Headaches Overview
View All![](https://img.lb.wbmdstatic.com/vim/live/webmd/consumer_assets/site_images/article_thumbnails/hpt_toc_redesign/migraine_hpt_toc_redesign/Migraine_GuideChapter_01_1203044187.jpg?resize=540px:*&output-quality=75)
Headaches Basics
Headaches can be complicated. Different kinds can have their own set of symptoms, causes, and need different treatments.
Headache Symptoms
Not all headaches are the same. Many headaches also cause other unwanted symptoms, including nausea and vomiting.
What Is a Secondary Headache?
For secondary headaches, another disease or condition is the cause. The headache is a symptom.
What Your Headache Location Tells You
Where your head hurts isn't a foolproof way to diagnose, but the location of your headache can be a starting point.
2 of 5 / Migraine
View All![](https://img.lb.wbmdstatic.com/vim/live/webmd/consumer_assets/site_images/article_thumbnails/hpt_toc_redesign/migraine_hpt_toc_redesign/Migraine_GuideChapter_02_Migraine_Custom_Illustration.jpg?resize=540px:*&output-quality=75)
What Is Migraine?
Migraine is a neurologic disorder that often causes a strong headache. In many people, it happens in stages.
Why Migraines Aren't 'Just' a Headache
There are key features that make migraine distinct from tension headaches and cluster headaches, which are rare.
Migraines vs. Chronic Migraines
if you have the condition known as chronic migraine, you get headaches 15 or more days a month for at least 3 months.
Mixed Tension Migraine
These headaches happen more than 15 days each month for at least 3 months. They can be migraine or tension headaches.
3 of 5 / Cluster & Tension Headaches
View All![](https://img.lb.wbmdstatic.com/vim/live/webmd/consumer_assets/site_images/article_thumbnails/hpt_toc_redesign/migraine_hpt_toc_redesign/Migraine_GuideChapter_03_1191193169.jpg?resize=540px:*&output-quality=75)
What Are Cluster Headaches?
Cluster headaches are a series of relatively short but very painful headaches every day for weeks or months at a time.
Migraine vs. Cluster Headache
It’s possible to have both migraine and cluster headaches, but your treatment depends on which one is causing your pain.
What Are Tension Headaches?
Tension headaches are also called stress headaches, and they’re the most common type for adults.
Tension Headache vs. Migraine
The symptoms you get, how long they last, and how intense they are can be different for migraines and tension headaches.
4 of 5 / Other Types of Headaches
View All![](https://img.lb.wbmdstatic.com/vim/live/webmd/consumer_assets/site_images/article_thumbnails/hpt_toc_redesign/migraine_hpt_toc_redesign/Migraine_GuideChapter_04_1193934777.jpg?resize=540px:*&output-quality=75)
Hemicrania Continua
This rare type of continuous headache doesn't stop. It causes pain on one side of your face or head.
What Are Hypnic Headaches?
Hypnic headache syndrome is a disorder that happens only while you’re asleep and mostly affects women over 50.
Ice Pick Headaches
Ice pick headaches feel like someone’s stabbing your face with an ice pick. They're also called stabbing headaches.
New Daily Persistent Headaches
New daily persistent headaches (NDPH) begin without warning and go on for 3 months or longer.
5 of 5 / Appointment Prep
View AllSuggested Reads about Migraine & Headaches
Migraine Warning Signs and What You Can Do
The earlier you catch a migraine, the easier it can be to treat. Here are a few warning signs from WebMD to watch for and remedies you can use to reduce pain.
Why Does My Head Ache?
Find out with the help of WebMD's slideshow what's behind your headache, and get some strategies to bring you relief for your pain.
10 Ways to Get Better Sleep With Migraines
Migraines can make it difficult to get restful sleep. Here are some changes that you can make to help you sleep better.
10 Bad Habits That May Trigger a Migraine
Find out how to avoid these 10 migraine triggers.
Top Search Terms for Migraine & Headaches
- Occipital Neuralgia
- Sinus Headache
- Ocular Migraine
- Cluster Headaches
- Tension Headache
- Migraine Symptoms
- Hemiplegic Migraine
- Abdominal Migraine
- Drugs for Migraine
- Types of Headaches
- Headache Remedies
- Migraine With Aura
- Treating Chronic Migraine with Botox
- Managing Acute Migraine with Zavzpret
- Treating Acute Migraine With Nurtec
- Relieving Acute Migraines With Ubrelvy
- Preventing Migraines With Qulipta
8 million+ Physician Ratings & Reviews
Find Doctors and Dentists Near You
You can also search by physician, practice, or hospital name