Headache or Migraine?

Headaches and migraines are common, but they are not the same. Not sure which one you have? Let’s take a look at what differentiates them.

Headaches

“Headache” is a general term for pain or discomfort in the head, scalp or even neck. There are several types of headaches, which can be identified by their triggers and area of pain.

• Tension Headaches: Often caused by stress, poor posture or muscle strain, these headaches create a dull, aching sensation around the forehead or back of the head.
• Cluster Headaches: Intense, recurring headaches that occur in clusters, often around one eye, and can last weeks or months.
• Sinus Headaches: Caused by sinus inflammation or infection, these headaches come with facial pressure or congestion.

For run-of-the-mill headaches, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen are the gold standard of treatment. Relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breath can refocus your attention away from the headache. Getting proper sleep and hydration are also important in preventing headaches.

Migraines

Migraines are a neurological condition characterized by intense head pain and are often accompanied by other symptoms.

• Aura Migraines begin with disruptions in the visual field before the migraine begins. Sometimes, they’re also accompanied by sensory or motor changes.
• Migraines without an aura cause a pounding or throbbing feeling on one side of the head.

Migraine’s hallmark symptoms are pulsating pain that is usually isolated to one side of the head. Nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light or sound are common too.

Different people have different migraine triggers. Fluctuating hormones, certain foods, stress or sleep disturbances can all cause migraines. They usually last from a few hours to several days and interfere with daily activities.

Some people find that over-the-counter pain medication can decrease the severity or duration of a migraine, but many people find they just have to get through it. For those with recurrent or especially strong migraines, prescription medication may help.

Schedule an appointment with Westgate Family Physicians to help determine if what you are experiencing is a headache or migraine.