Is it possible that what you think is a headache is actually a migraine? Here is some basic information to tell the two apart.
When you have head pain, it’s not always easy to tell if it’s a migraine or another type of headache. It’s of paramount importance that you be able to tell which one is occurring so that you can use a more accurately targeted treatment.
What’s the difference between a migraine and other types of headaches?
Understanding headaches
A non-migraine headache is essentially pain in your head. In fact, that’s exactly how the Mayo Clinic defines headache: “pain in any region of the head.”
It can be experienced unilaterally (on one side) or bilaterally (on both sides). The pain often strikes at the back of the neck, temples, and forehead. The average headache disappears quickly, but these attacks can last for as long as a week.
Common headache types include:
Tension headache: This is the most prevalent type of headache. These headaches are often triggered by high levels of stress or overexertion.
Cluster headache: These headaches are unilateral like migraines, but they typically aren’t as painful. Patients often get runny noses when these headaches occur.
Sinus headache: These headaches are typically accompanies by congestion or coughing. Typically you will experience pressure on your face as well.
Understanding migraines
To identify a migraine is in part to recognize the true severity of the pain, notes Rachel Nall, RN, of Healthline. “Some people may experience headaches so severe they seek care at an emergency room,” she says. “A migraine headache will cause intense pain that may be throbbing and will make performing daily tasks very difficult.”
Usually you will only have migraine pain on one side, but it can be bilateral. Plus, other symptoms often occur beyond the pain with a migraine:
- Vomiting or nausea
- Pain behind the ear, eye, or at the temples
- Flashing light
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Temporary inability to see.
Two types of migraine
There are also two different types of migraine. One is the classic migraine and the other is the common migraine. The former comes with an aura, and the latter does not. For a classic migraine, the aura is a sensation in the patient that usually occurs within a half-hour prior to the attack.
Typical auras include:
- Feeling disoriented
- A sensation of flashing light
- Lack of feeling or pins-and-needles in the hands or face.
Getting expert treatment
Are you suffering from excruciating head pain, possibly along with other symptoms such as nausea or vomiting? Identifying the type of headache is only the first step toward recovery.
At Atlanta Medical Clinic, we offer an effective, non-surgical treatment for tension headaches, cluster headaches and migraine pain relief that uses a nerve block and advanced physical therapy. Learn more.