Symptoms

Symptoms of Headaches

Headaches are accompanied by a variety of symptoms, depending upon the type of headache. Symptoms of headaches include:

Tension headache symptoms

Tension headaches are often characterized by:

• Slow onset of head pain
• Pain in both sides of the head
• Dull pain that feels like a band or vice
• Pain in the back of the head or neck

Migraine headache symptoms

Migraines are distinguished by the fact that symptoms other than pain occur, such as:

• Lightheadedness
• Light sensitivity and other visual disturbances
• May occur with or without an aura phase, meaning it may involve:
  
  • Hallucinations
  • Numbness
  • Changes in speech or weakness

The aura phase is the second stage in the onset of a migraine, and is usually experienced by one in five migraine sufferers.

Cluster headache symptoms

Cluster headaches can cause:

• Severe pain on one side of the head, usually behind one eye
• A droopy, red or swollen eyelid or a small pupil
• Runny nose or congestion
• Swelling of the forehead