Headaches 101: 3 Types of Headaches and the Most Effective Treatments for Each - Legacy ER

Headaches. We all get them, whether as a result of stress, dehydration, or sinus pressure. But did you know that there are effective treatments for each type of headache out there? 

That’s right! You might know how to treat cuts, burns, and stomach pain, but if you don’t know what to do about headaches, you’re in for a treat. In fact, we’ve created a short guide to help you determine the most effective treatment for your specific headache. 

Tension Headaches

Tension headaches are the most common type of headache out there. They typically feel like a constant ache or pressure around your head, especially near your temples or around the back of your head. Though they rarely put a stop to daily activities, it’s pretty annoying to feel constant, dull pain while you run your daily errands. Some of the best treatments for these headaches include: 

• Over-the-counter pain medication
• Heat therapy
• Hydration

Sinus Headaches

When sinuses become inflamed, whether due to minor injuries and illnesses or an infection, they can put pressure on your facial bones and cause some pretty intense pain. Unfortunately, this type of headache often comes with a fever and can usually be diagnosed via the presence of pus. While an at-home treatment would be nice, these should usually be tackled by a medical professional. Fortunately, almost 60% of urgent care clinics have a wait time of less than 15 minutes. IF you have a sinus headache, treatment usually consists of the following: 

• Antibiotics
• Antihistamines
• Decongestants

Rebound Headaches

Remember all of that medication you took to help with your headaches? Turns out it could actually be causing more headaches. These are called rebound headaches. They’re thought to occur as a result of too much medication, but another theory suggests that medication withdrawal could also be the main culprit. It might not be pleasant to think about, but aside from seeking medical advice from your doctor, there’s not much to be done about these nasty headaches. 

These are just a few of many different types of headaches, but knowing what constitutes as effective treatment for each is important. After all, a basic knowledge can lead to more knowledge in the future!