To treat a headache, first you need to understand the type of pain you’re experiencing.
When you have a headache, it can be tempting to get into bed, pull the covers over your head, and try not to think about how lousy you feel until the pain has passed. But paying attention to the location of your pain is key, as it can indicate the type of headache you have. Once you know this, you’ll be better prepared to choose the right type of relief, so you feel better, faster.
Here’s a guide to help identify different headache types based on where it hurts and to determine the best options for treatment.
Tension Headache
Pain location
Tension headaches can feel like a tight band that stretches across your head.1
Symptoms
Tension headache symptoms vary and can include:
- Mild to moderate dull, aching head pain
- Stiff muscles, tightness in the neck, shoulders, scalp, and jaw
There are two types of tension headaches:
- Episodic (occurring less than 15 times a month)
- Chronic (occurring more than 15 times a month over the course of more than three months)
Either type can last anywhere from a half hour to a week.2
Treatment
- Develop ways to cope with stress
- Massage the affected area
- Apply hot or cold compresses
- Ensure you get enough sleep and exercise5
- OTC pain relievers that combine acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine may also be effective6
Talk to your doctor for more information.
See how Excedrin Tension helps other tension headache sufferers manage their pain.
Cluster Headache
Pain Location
Cluster headaches develop as a cluster on one side of the head, usually in or behind one eye or at the temple.
