Tension headache

This is the most common type of headache. It can affect both men and women of any age, but it is most often seen in adults and adolescents. Tension headaches occur when the muscles around the head and neck tighten up, causing pain. They normally cause a dull, aching pain in the forehead, temples or at the back of the neck. Sufferers will often say that they feel as if they have a tight band around their head or a heavy weight pressing down on the top of their head. There are many reasons why tension headaches occur, including stress, anxiety, bad posture, tiredness and eye strain.

Sinus headache

This is caused by a build-up of pressure in the sinuses, often during or after a cold. The sufferer may experience a throbbing pain that is worse when they move their head, and toothache or pain in their jaw when they eat. The pain can be worse in the morning. Green or yellow coloured mucus may be a sign of an infection which needs to be referred.

Cluster headache

Cluster headaches cause severe pain on one side of the head, usually around one eye or temple. They are uncommon, but can occur suddenly without warning. They normally happen in clusters over a six to 12 week period. In general, their onset is too rapid for OTC painkillers to be effective.

Hangover headache

Alcohol causes dehydration, but the liver needs water to get rid of toxins from the body. When the supply of water runs out, the liver takes it from organs including the brain, which causes those throbbing headaches. It feels like a dull, pounding ache and is often associated with nausea and vomiting.

Medication overuse headache

Also known as rebound headache, this is caused by the overuse of painkillers. As the effect of the painkiller begins to wear off, the withdrawal triggers the next headache. This can lead to a vicious cycle of headache and painkiller overuse. It is estimated that up to one in 10 people who have frequent headaches do so because they take painkillers too often.