Living with Chronic Headache: Small Steps Toward Big Relief

Headache is more than “just a pain.” It can feel sharp, throbbing, dull or pulsing. Some last minutes, others days. When headaches happen frequently, they may become chronic headache. Below are What headache Is, Types, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment:

1. What it is & types

A chronic headache means you experience head pain on 15 or more days per month for at least three months. Primary types include chronic migraine, tension type headache, new daily persistent headache and hemicrania continua. Secondary headaches arise from another medical issue, such as infection or vascular conditions.

2. Causes & symptoms

Common triggers include stress, poor sleep, hormonal changes, dehydration, posture strain and medication overuse. Symptoms may involve nausea, sensitivity to light or sound, visual disturbances and one-sided or pressure-like pain.

3. What you can do (treatment & action)

• Track your pattern. Keep a diary to identify triggers and trends.

• Adjust habits. Get regular sleep, stay hydrated, manage stress and maintain good posture.

• Use evidence-based treatments. Preventive therapies include CGRP inhibitors, oral medications and Botox injections. Acute relief can come from NSAIDs, triptans, gepants or ditans.

• Explore behavioral tools. Cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation methods and neuromodulation devices may help reduce pain frequency.

When to seek help

See a headache specialist if symptoms worsen, disrupt daily life, or appear suddenly. You’re not alone. Your pain is valid, and real solutions exist. Track, take action and reach out—relief is possible.