Most headaches are "tension" headaches — a dull, band-like ache often linked to stress, poor posture, dehydration, tiredness or skipping meals. They usually respond well to rest, water, over-the-counter pain relief and addressing the underlying trigger.
Frequent use of painkillers can itself cause "medication overuse" headaches, so it's worth not relying on them too often. See a GP urgently, or call 999, for a headache that comes on suddenly and severely (like a "thunderclap"), is accompanied by a stiff neck, confusion, weakness, vision changes or a rash, or follows a head injury, as these can be signs of something more serious.
See also our page on migraines, a distinct and often more severe type of headache.
Common questions
What is the most common type of headache?
A tension headache, a dull, band-like ache often linked to stress, poor posture, dehydration, tiredness or skipping meals.
When is a headache a medical emergency?
If it comes on suddenly and severely, or is accompanied by a stiff neck, confusion, weakness, vision changes or a rash, seek help urgently.