Primary vs Secondary
Types of Headaches
There are two main categories of types of headaches:
Primary Headaches
These are not caused by another medical condition. The headache itself is the main disorder.
Secondary Headaches
These result from an underlying condition such as neck problems, medication overuse, or other medical issues.
Primary Types of Headaches
01
Migraine
Migraine is one of the most common and disabling types of headaches, characterized by episodic or chronic attacks.
Migraine is a neurological condition that causes moderate-to-severe head pain, often one-sided and throbbing, and is frequently associated with nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.
Common Symptoms
One-sided head pain
Throbbing or pulsating sensation
Nausea or vomiting
Light sensitivity
Aura (in ~30% of patients)
Quick Facts
Prevalence: ~15% of Canadians
Duration: 4–72 hours
Pain Type: Pulsating
Gender Ratio: 3:1 women to men
Treatments: Botox, CGRP inhibitors, nerve blocks
02
Tension-Type Headache
The most common of all types of headaches, tension headaches present as a steady pressure or tightening sensation.
They are usually less severe than migraine but can still affect daily functioning — especially if they become chronic.
Common Symptoms
Pressure or tightness
Both sides of the head
Mild to moderate pain
No nausea
Quick Facts
Most common headache type
Duration: 30 minutes to 7 days
Pain Type: Pressing/tightening
Gender: Equal distribution
Treatments: Physiotherapy, trigger point injections, nerve blocks
03
Cluster Headache
Cluster headache is one of the most severe types of headaches, known for intense pain and cyclical patterns.
These headaches occur in “clusters” over weeks or months, followed by periods of remission.
Common Symptoms
Severe one-sided pain
Around the eye
Tearing or nasal congestion
Repeating cycles
Quick Facts
Prevalence: ~0.1%
Duration: 15–180 minutes
Pain: Extremely severe
Gender Ratio: More common in men
Treatments: Oxygen therapy, triptans, nerve blocks
Secondary Types of Headaches
04
Cervicogenic Headache
This type of headache originates from the neck and is often mistaken for migraine.
Pain is referred from cervical spine structures and is typically worsened by movement or posture.
Common Symptoms
Neck-related pain
One-sided headache
Worse with movement
Limited neck range
Quick Facts
Prevalence: ~2.5%
Origin: Cervical spine
Triggers: Posture, neck movement
Treatments: Physiotherapy, nerve blocks
05
Medication Overuse Headache
Also known as rebound headache, this occurs when pain medications are used too frequently.
Instead of relieving headaches, medication overuse can worsen them over time.
Common Symptoms
Daily or near-daily headaches
Dependence on pain medication
Worsening symptoms
Quick Facts
Threshold: 10–15 days/month
Causes: Triptans, NSAIDs, opioids
Treatment: Supervised withdrawal + preventive therapy
How to Know Which Type of Headache You Have
Many patients struggle to identify their condition because symptoms overlap between different types of headaches.
You may need specialist evaluation if:
Your headaches are frequent or worsening
Treatments are no longer effective
You are unsure of your diagnosis
Your symptoms are affecting your daily life
👉 Accurate diagnosis is the key to effective treatment.
When to See a
Headache Specialist
If you are dealing with ongoing headaches, a specialist can help determine the exact type and recommend targeted treatment.
Early evaluation can prevent chronic progression and improve long-term outcomes.
Treatment Options Based on
Headache Type
Treatment depends on the specific diagnosis.
Options may include:
Preventive medications
Botox for chronic migraine
Nerve Blocks
Infusion therapy
Lifestyle and trigger management
Not Sure What Type of Headache You Have?
Get a Clear Diagnosis
From a Specialist
If you’re unsure about the types of headaches you’re experiencing, a specialist can provide clarity and guide you toward the right treatment.
A physician referral is required to access our clinic.
Phone
Fax (Referrals)
403-460-4569
Location
#10 – 12432 Symons Valley Rd NW