7 Common Causes
The most common type of headache. Caused by tight muscles in your neck, shoulders, and scalp, often from stress, poor posture, or staring at screens for too long. It feels like a band squeezing around your head.
Not drinking enough water is one of the simplest and most overlooked headache triggers. Even 1 to 2 percent dehydration can cause a dull, persistent headache.
Long hours at a computer, reading in dim light, or needing glasses you do not have can tire your eye muscles and trigger headaches around your forehead and temples.
Too little sleep, too much sleep, or irregular sleep patterns can all trigger headaches. Your brain needs consistent, quality rest to function without pain signals.
Both too much caffeine and caffeine withdrawal cause headaches. If you drink coffee daily and skip a day, a withdrawal headache is common within 12 to 24 hours.
Inflammation or infection in your sinuses causes pressure and pain around your forehead, cheeks, and eyes. Often comes with congestion and a runny nose.
More than just a bad headache. Migraines involve throbbing pain (usually one-sided), sensitivity to light and sound, and sometimes nausea. They can last hours to days and may have visual warning signs (aura).
When to See a Doctor
- Headaches are getting worse or more frequent over time
- Pain is sudden and severe ("worst headache of your life")
- Headache follows a head injury
- You experience vision changes, confusion, or difficulty speaking
- Headache comes with fever, stiff neck, or rash
- Over-the-counter pain relievers stop working
Quick Tips
- Drink water consistently throughout the day
- Take screen breaks every 20 minutes (20-20-20 rule: look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds)
- Manage stress with deep breathing or short walks
- Keep a headache diary to identify your personal triggers
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule
- Check if you need an updated eye prescription
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.