Hemicrania continua is a type of primary headache, meaning it has no apparent underlying cause. The headaches produce continuous pain which varies in severity. Most people who experience these headaches report that pain increases then reduces in severity 3–5 times each day. Pain always occurs on the same side of the head and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as runny nose and teary eyes, or nausea and vomiting.
Hemicrania continua headaches are related to other primary headache syndromes (e.g. cluster headaches). They can be treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
For more information about the different types of headaches and how they can be treated, see Headaches and Migraines.
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