What causes you to get a severe headache every night at the same time?

Experiencing severe headaches every night at the same time could have several potential causes, and it's important to consult a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Some common causes of nocturnal headaches include:

1. Medication Overuse Headache: If you're frequently using over-the-counter painkillers or migraine medications to relieve headaches, you may develop a medication overuse headache (MOH). This occurs when the body becomes dependent on the medication, and headaches can occur when the medication wears off.

2. Sleep Issues: Certain sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or insomnia, can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to headaches upon waking up or during the night.

3. Caffeine Withdrawal Headache: If you regularly consume caffeine and abruptly reduce or stop your intake, you may experience a caffeine withdrawal headache. This headache can occur at a specific time each night if your caffeine consumption is consistent.

4. Blood Pressure: In some cases, high blood pressure (hypertension) can cause headaches, particularly in the morning or during the night.

5. Stress and Tension: Severe stress or tension can contribute to muscle tension and headaches, which may worsen at night due to reduced activity and relaxation.

6. Sinusitis: Headaches can be caused by sinus infections or inflammation, especially if the sinus pressure builds up during the day and worsens at night when lying down.

7. Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH): This condition involves increased pressure within the skull and can lead to chronic headaches, often described as a "pressure" or "tightness" sensation, particularly in the evening or at night.

8. Head and Neck Issues: Problems with the spine, neck, or jaw joints, such as cervical spine problems or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, can cause headaches that may be persistent at night.

It's important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis, as severe headaches can sometimes indicate underlying medical conditions requiring specific treatments. The doctor may recommend diagnostic tests, such as imaging scans, to identify any structural abnormalities or to rule out more serious causes.