What is the most common type of primary headache?

The most common type of primary headache is tension-type headache. These headaches are characterized by a bilateral, pressing, or tightening quality and can range from mild to moderate intensity. They often do not have associated features like nausea or vomiting, which are more typical of other types of headaches such as migraines.

Tension-type headaches are thought to be related to stress, muscle tension, and environmental factors, and they can occur episodically or develop into a chronic form if they occur frequently over a long period. This prevalence makes tension-type headaches the most frequently reported primary headache disorder, affecting a significant portion of the population at some point in their lives.

Understanding the classification of headaches is important in clinical practice, as it helps guide appropriate management and treatment strategies for patients presenting with headache complaints.