Headache

Everyone has a headache from time to time. Headache symptoms can vary in intensity and duration. Sometimes the symptoms are caused by a problem within the head itself. However, headache can also originate from the neck or the jaw.

Anatomy of the head

Various muscles run from the neck to the head. These ensure that we can move the head in all directions. In the head itself there are also many muscles with which we can, among other things, move the face, eyes, and jaws. Blood vessels, nerve pathways, and the spinal cord run to and from the brain. The blood vessels ensure that the head and the brain are supplied with oxygen and nutrients. The nerves and the spinal cord carry and process information that comes from the body. This allows us to control muscles and perceive pain. Different types of headache When muscles are (for a prolonged time) too tightly tensed, this can lead to so-called tension-type headache. The pain can also come from a problem with the nerves in the neck. That is the case, for example, with cervicogenic headache. Headache caused by migraine or by medications also occurs frequently. Cluster headache can cause severe stabbing pains around the eye. Headache around the ear can be the result of a poorly functioning jaw joint.

Check your headache

Do you want to know what kind of headache you have? Then take the online self-check. By answering a number of questions about your headache, you will gain more insight and information about your symptoms. After you have answered the questions, you will receive an overview of the types of headache that most closely match the pain you are experiencing. You can then read where this headache comes from and what you can do about it. You can also search for a physical therapist near you who can help you get rid of these symptoms.

Conditions that cause headache and/or neck pain

The list below includes some common conditions that cause headache and/or neck pain. By clicking on one of these conditions you will get more information.