Overview

Headaches are one of the most common health problems, and can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. They can feel different, how often they happen, and what causes them. Some common types include tension headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches. Others may be linked to medical conditions.

Many headaches are temporary and can be managed, but others can be chronic and make daily activities, work, and your quality of life difficult. Learn about the different types of headaches, what causes them, and what you can do to feel better.

Ways to care for yourself

Learn practical ways to help manage headaches and feel better.

• Managing a headache
  Most of the time, headaches get better or go away with care at home and don't need a visit to a doctor. Treatment for headaches at home can often help cut how long you have pain and how bad it is. Start home treatment as soon as you can.
• Sleep strategies
  This learning module can help you learn more about your sleep habits and learn ways to improve your sleep. Learning some of the strategies may also reduce your headaches.
• Using cold and heat therapies
  Cold and heat therapies use cold or heat to help with pain, soreness, muscle spasms, swelling, and inflammation.

Clinics and services

We have a range of health services and clinics for patients of all ages and their families. To access many of these services, you will need a referral(*) from a health professional. Talk to a doctor first about which service is best for you.

(*) patient referral: a patient referral is a communication from one health care professional to another requesting that they accept you as a patient to evaluate your condition.