Headaches are one of the most common health complaints worldwide, ranging from mild tension headaches to debilitating migraines. Most are not serious, but some require urgent medical attention.
A headache is pain or discomfort felt in the head, scalp, or neck. The International Headache Society classifies over 150 types of headache, but the vast majority experienced by people in Korea fall into three categories: tension headaches (the most common), migraines, and cluster headaches.
In Korea, long working hours, high screen-time, and seasonal weather swings are significant headache triggers. Winter's dry indoor heating and summer's humid heat both contribute to dehydration-related headaches, while prolonged desk work and commuting stress drive tension headaches among Korea's working population.
While most headaches resolve with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relief, persistent or severe headaches should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Never ignore a sudden, severe "thunderclap" headache, as it may indicate a serious medical emergency.
Key Points
- Tension headache: dull, pressing pain around the head like a tight band
- Migraine: moderate to severe throbbing pain, often one-sided, with nausea or light sensitivity
- Cluster headache: intense pain around one eye, occurring in cyclical patterns
- Sinus headache: pressure and pain around the cheeks, forehead, and eyes
- Dehydration headache: common with Korea's dry winter heating, relieved by drinking water
- Rebound headache: caused by overuse of pain medication
Causes & Risk Factors
- Dehydration — worsened by dry indoor heating in Korea's winters
- Stress and tension from work or lifestyle
- Poor sleep quality or sleep deprivation
- Prolonged screen time and eye strain
- Hormonal changes (menstruation, pregnancy, menopause)
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Caffeine withdrawal
- Sinusitis or nasal congestion
When to See a Doctor
- Sudden, severe 'thunderclap' headache — this is a medical emergency (call 119)
- Headache with fever, stiff neck, confusion, or rash
- Headache after a head injury or accident
- Headaches that are progressively worsening over days or weeks
- Headache with vision changes, weakness, or speech difficulty
- Frequent headaches (more than 15 days per month)
For emergencies in Korea, call 119
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This content is published for educational purposes only. For accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment, consult a licensed KMA physician in Korea.
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Medical Disclaimer
This article is published by DoctorsInKorea.com for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace a professional clinical evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider. For accurate medical diagnosis and personalised treatment paths, please book an appointment with a licensed KMA physician. For immediate life-threatening medical emergencies in Korea, please call 119.
Sources & References
- World Health Organization
- Mayo Clinic
- NHS UK
- Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency
- Korea Ministry of Health and Welfare
Last reviewed: May 29, 2026