GP Reveals 5 Common Headaches

Headaches are a frequent concern for General Practitioners, with varying causes and treatment needs. Dr. Amir Khan differentiates five common headache types: migraine, tension-type, cluster, cervicogenic, and medication overuse headaches.

Migraines are described as throbbing, often one-sided pain, accompanied by symptoms like nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Tension-type headaches typically present as a tight band around the head, often linked to stress or poor posture. Cluster headaches are exceptionally painful, usually focused around one eye, with sufferers often exhibiting restlessness.

Cervicogenic headaches originate in the neck and can spread to the head, often worsening with neck movements. Medication overuse headaches, paradoxically, can be caused by the frequent use of painkillers, creating a cycle of dependency. Dr. Khan emphasizes that while most headaches are benign, a 'thunderclap' headache—an explosive, sudden onset pain—necessitates immediate emergency assessment due to potential links to conditions like aneurysms or hemorrhages.