Mayo Clinic Health Manager
Get free personalized health guidance for you and your family.
Get StartedSymptoms
By Mayo Clinic staffCough headaches:
- Strike suddenly with and just after coughing or other types of straining
- Typically last a few seconds to a few minutes — some can last up to 30 minutes
- Cause sharp, stabbing or splitting pain
- Usually affect both sides of your head and the back of your skull
- Can be followed by a dull, aching pain for several hours