Types of Headaches - A Visual Description
From Mark Foley, D.O., former About.com Guide
Updated November 20, 2008
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
Understanding the typical distribution of pain for the main types of headaches can help determine what types of headaches you are experiencing.
Classifying headaches according to the distribution of pain can help determine the type of headache you are having.
Photo - A.D.A.M.
There are four "basic" types of headaches: migraines, cluster headaches, tension headaches, and sinus headaches. There are other types as well, but these are the main ones that affect most people. Each has a different distribution of pain, although overlap can occur. It is helpful to identify the pattern of your pain so you can discuss symptoms accurately with a health care professional. He or she can then best suggest a treatment plan that is individualized for you.