Up to 90 percent of men and 95 percent of women experience at least one severe headache in their lifetimes. A headache occurs when certain triggers (such as stress or muscle tension) stimulate pain-sensitive nerves in the head, face, mouth, or neck. Headaches can occur for several reasons and the pain can vary by frequency, severity, and location.

 

Your healthcare provider can diagnose the type of headache and its cause by asking several questions, performing a physical exam, and possibly ordering certain tests to rule out serious causes. Treatment options for a headache can include lifestyle changes, medications, and alternative treatments.