Different types of headaches require different types of treatments. Before a headache begins, a person may see flashing lights or wavy lines. This is followed by a throbbing, pounding headache. Extreme sensitivity to light and noise, as well as nausea and vomiting, usually accompany migraines. A person with a severe migraine often will need to sleep for a day or two until the pain subsides.
Migraines occur more often in women and can be triggered by hormonal changes.
Those who suffer from chronic tension headaches should be treated with medication specifically designed for tension headaches. A person will get a headache several times a day for a few weeks or a few months, then the headaches will stop. The headache cycle may return a year later. Cluster headaches are extremely severe, but only last for half an hour or an hour. Because of the extreme pain, the patient usually requires medication.