Terrible Headache that Won't go Away

Dear Ask The Doctor: I have had a headache since yesterday, about 20 hours ago it started. It started in the morning with a sharp pain in the right back side of my head but dulled down as the day went on. I went to bed last night with it still there, but barely! I got up this morning and it was fine but all of a sudden it came back with force. The sharp piercing feeling returned but worse than before. I have had these before but never thought much of them but this one is worse than usual. I have got an appointment with my own doctor this afternoon but wondering if you could shed some light in the situation first.

Dear Robyn: The headache that you have described could be either a tension-type headache or a cluster headache. The tension-type headache is the most common type of headache. It is a pressing or tightening type (band like) of headache, that is usually located in the forehead or the back of the head. It usually lasts between 30 minutes to 7 days and is not brought about by physical activity.

Cluster headaches begins far more dramatically and usually one side of the face. It is described as a boring type pain. It usually comes without warning and may begin as a burning sensation in your eyes. It has a seasonal variation. Medications like paracetamol (tylenol) or NSAIDS (ibuprofen) may help during the attack. You may have to discuss and come up with a treatment plan with your doctor.