Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
Tension, migraine, cluster, medication-overuse and secondary headaches explained.
Headaches are divided into primary types, which are the disease themselves, and secondary types, which have another cause.
Primary headaches
Secondary headaches
Ayurvedic classification
Ayurveda names vataja, pittaja, kaphaja and sannipataja shirashoola, and also ardhavabhedaka for one-sided headache, similar to migraine. This is a traditional framework, not a medical diagnosis.
Key point
The type guides the treatment, so a clear diagnosis is worth getting if headaches are frequent.
Before your appointment
Keep a headache diary for a few weeks, noting when headaches start, how long they last, their location and type of pain, and possible triggers such as sleep, meals, stress, periods and screen time. List all medicines, supplements and painkillers you take and how many days a month you use them. Mention head injuries, family history, and any red flag symptoms.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
Read Our Editorial Policy
Want to know more?
Have issue with the content?
Report Problem
Explore more articles about this topic
Gentle yoga, stretching and breathing between attacks, what to avoid.
Symptoms by headache type, plus red flags such as sudden severe pain.
Regular sleep and meals, water, stress care, trigger diary, limited painkillers.
Paracetamol, NSAIDs, migraine drugs, overuse risk and safety, no child aspirin.
Rest, water, compresses, posture and habits, and when to get help.
Regular meals, water, possible food triggers and supplement cautions.
