Main Content
Top of the page
It can be hard for your doctor to tell whether you have migraine headaches, tension headaches, sinus headaches, cluster headaches, or a combination of these types. The symptoms of these headaches are often the same, and no test can diagnose headaches.
Listing a few key features of your headaches may help your doctor find out what type of headache you have. This can help your doctor treat your headaches.
For example, you may think that your headaches are sinus headaches. But if they happen often and interfere with your daily life, they probably are migraines. A true sinus headache is caused by a sinus infection.
Type
Where the pain is
How bad the pain is
Things that make it worse
Symptoms
Migraine
Usually on one side of your head with pressure behind one eye
Throbbing, pulsating headache that is moderate to severe
Pain gets worse with normal physical activity.
Sinus
Around your eyes, cheekbones, forehead, and bridge of the nose
Deep and constant headache pain
Leaning over, sudden movement, or exercising may make the headache worse.
Tension
On both sides or all over your head
Deep, pressing, tightening headache that does not throb or pulse and is mild to moderate
Physical activity does not make headache worse.
Cluster
On one side of the face, head, or neck; does not switch sides
Piercing pain that gets very bad very fast, usually within 5 to 10 minutes
Lying down makes it worse.
Current as of: April 8, 2021
Author: Healthwise StaffMedical Review: Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal MedicineMartin J. Gabica MD - Family MedicineKathleen Romito MD - Family MedicineColin Chalk MD, CM, FRCPC - NeurologyKathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Colin Chalk MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.