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. Tension headache - The most common type of headache is tension headache, which is related to stress, dehydration, not enough sleep, and skipping meals. The pain is described as a squeezing sensation around the front, sides, and top of the head.
. Migraine headache - This is a recurrent, disabling pain that is pounding, throbbing, and usually occurs on one side of the head. Migraines can have associated symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and visual disturbances.
. Cluster headache - This is an excruciating pain that circles around one eye and occurs mainly in men. Certain triggers bring on this pain, such as weather changes, strong odors, and stress.

Secondary headaches can occur due to a head injury, concussion, a recent cold or sinus infection, and allergies. In addition, headaches can be a side effect of certain kinds of medications. For women, hormonal changes in the body can trigger headaches.

A primary headache is caused by overactivity of the head structures that sense pain (blood vessels and nerves). Certain triggers can bring on a primary headache, such as odors, temperature changes, physical exertion, certain food/drinks, and stress.

The treatment of a headache depends on the type and the underlying cause. Avoiding triggers is always a good idea, too. Treatment options include:

Medications - For acute pain, the doctor may prescribe triptans (Imitrex or Maxalt). Other medications used to treat headache include Migergot and Carergot, which contain caffeine. For patients with persistent, recurrent headache, preventive tricyclic antidepressants sometime help.

Botox injections - The doctor can inject botulinum toxin type A (a potent neurotoxin) into the forehead, jaw, and occipital region to prevent headaches. This substance paralyzes the muscle and blocks the release of acetylcholine from the nerve cells. A recent report found that pericranial injection of Botox was a safe and effective treatment for reducing migraines symptoms.

Occipital nerve block (ONB) - This procedure is done for occipital neuralgia and headaches that affect the back and top of the head. The doctor inserts a tiny needle through the skin and scalp of the posterior head. An anesthetic, and sometimes corticosteroid, is injected into the area. In a recent clinical study, the majority of participants with chronic migraine reported 50% or more reduction of headache intensity, pain, and frequency several months following the ONB.

Acupuncture - This ancient Chinese technique involves the insertion of fine needles into the back of the neck and upper shoulders to relieve head pain. Experts believe this involves the release of endorphins. A recent clinical study involving almost 18,000 participants, acupuncture was found to be more effective than placebo for headache treatment.

Radiofrequency denervation - This procedure involves the insertion of small needles into the tiny facet joints of the cervical spine. The doctor uses x-ray guidance to assure correct needle placement, and radiofrequency energy is introduced through the needles onto the nerves. This heat destroys a portion of the nerve root. In a clinical study of patients with cervicogenic headache, this treatment had a 75% success rate at 12 months follow-up.