(Muscle Contraction Headache; Tension-Type Headache)

Tension headache – Definition

Tension headache refers to head pain associated with stress and muscle contraction. These headaches may occur only occasionally in response to a stressful event. They may also be chronic, occurring frequently. Some tension headaches are nearly constant, with daily pain that may vary in intensity.

Sinus headache – Definition

Sinus headache refers to head and facial pain associated with inflammation of the sinuses (called sinusitis). The sinuses are hollow cavities in the skull that have openings into the nose. Colds and allergies cause inflammation of the nasal passages and can lead to sinusitis. Sinus headache is a symptom of sinusitis.

Migraine – Definition

Migraine is a type of recurring headache. It involves nerves and brain chemicals. Other sensations (eg, auras) may come before a migraine headache.

There are two types of migraines:

• Occurring with an aura (formerly called “classic”)
• Occurring without an aura (formerly called “common”)

Migraine may happen several times a week or once every couple of years. They can be so severe that they interfere with the ability to work and carry on normal activities.

Cluster headaches – Definition

Cluster headache is a type of severe, recurring pain that is located on one side of the head. It received its name from the clustering, or pattern, of frequent headaches that usually occur.

There are two main types of cluster headaches:

• Episodic cluster headaches — These occur one or more times daily for 4-8 weeks. The headaches then enter a period of remission and come back months or years later.
• Chronic cluster headaches — These occur almost daily with headache-free periods lasting less than one month.

Either type of headache may convert to the other type.