Do I Suffer From Compression Headaches?

Do you experience intense pressure on (a part of) your head coupled with moderate pain caused by wearing something tight across your forehead or scalp?

Is the pain steady, not pulsing?

Has the pain gone away within an hour of removing the source of pressure?

Can you confirm that you do not have any other symptoms, such as nausea or dizziness?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you suffer from compression headaches. This type of headache starts when you wear something tight across your forehead or scalp, such as a headband, goggles, or a helmet. People who often wear helmets for work (e.g., construction) or sports (e.g., American football) are more likely to develop compression headaches. These headaches can turn into migraines in individuals who are already prone to getting migraines. Luckily, in your case, there seems to be no reason to be worried.

Based on your answers, you are displaying some signs related to compression headaches. This type of pain starts when a tight object placed on or around your head puts pressure on nerves under your skin. The affected nerves send signals from your brain to your face and back of your head. Any object that puts pressure on your forehead or scalp can lead to compression headaches, including football-, hockey-, or baseball helmets, but also military helmets, hard hats used for construction, swim goggles, and headbands. Once you remove the source of pressure, the pain should ease up within an hour. Compression headaches are not that common.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have compression headaches. In most cases, there is no need to see a doctor for this type of headache. The pain usually goes away after removing the source of pressure. However, if the pain keeps coming back, even when you are not wearing any object on your head, you should visit your doctor. If your compression headaches turn into migraines, try over-the-counter medications. To avoid these headaches in the future, avoid wearing tight objects unless absolutely necessary. If you do need to wear a helmet or other headgear for safety reasons, make sure they fit well.