Tension headache
A dull, band-like pressure on both sides of the head. Usually mild to moderate, lasts 30 minutes to a few hours, and rarely interferes with daily activity.
Migraine
Throbbing, often one-sided pain that lasts 4–72 hours, frequently with nausea, sensitivity to light or sound, and sometimes a visual aura beforehand. Activity usually makes it worse.
Common triggers
Stress, skipped meals, dehydration, alcohol, caffeine withdrawal, hormonal shifts and lack of sleep. Keeping a headache diary helps identify your personal triggers.
Treatment
For occasional tension headaches: rest, water and a standard pain reliever. For migraines: lie in a dark, quiet room and take medication early — triptans prescribed by a doctor work best when used at first warning signs.
Red flags — see a doctor
Sudden 'worst headache of your life', headache with fever and stiff neck, weakness, confusion, vision loss, or headaches after a head injury require urgent evaluation.