Headaches and migraines are common yet distinctly different conditions that can significantly impact daily life. A headache might lightly tap on your skull, a mild inconvenience you can brush aside with a glass of water or a short rest, whilst a migraine may feel like it barges like a thunderclap accompanied by its procession of nausea, light sensitivity, and a throbbing beat that can take over your entire day. Understanding whether you are experiencing a headache, or a migraine is crucial for choosing the appropriate treatment strategy.
Types of headaches
There are diverse types of headaches, each with distinct characteristics and causes. Here is a list of some of the most common types:- Tension headaches: These are the most common form of headache, usually felt as a mild, persistent ache on both sides of the head. They are generally caused by stress, anxiety, hunger, eyestrain, or poor posture.
- Cluster headaches: These are severe headaches, usually very painful and occur in clusters, hence the name. They are marked by intense pain around one eye or one side of the head and often occur daily at the same time or multiple times a day over a period of weeks or months. They are a consequence of the dilation of the blood vessels of the brain due to the release of serotonin and histamines. Cluster headaches are associated with the hypothalamus and the precise causes are not fully understood. They can be triggered by factors such as exertion, fatigue, bright lights and alcohol consumption and can affect up to 0.1% of the population.
- Sinus headaches: These headaches are associated with sinus infections or when you feel congested. A 2018 survey found that sinus infections affect about 11.6% of adults. They are often caused by the swelling of the sinus passage and have symptoms such as cough, fever, stuffy nose, and pain in the forehead, cheeks and nose.
- Thunderclap headache: These are sudden and severe headaches that ramp up quickly within seconds. Thunderclap headaches are a rare type of headache and can be a sign of a serious medical condition. It is usually described by the patient that it’s the worst headache that they have ever had.
- Cervicogenic headaches: These headaches originate from problems in the neck, cervical spine such as neck injury or arthritis. These issues extend the pain to the head.
What is a migraine?
Migraine is a chronic headache disorder characterised by recurring episodes of severe and throbbing headaches, usually only on one side of the head. The prevalence of migraine in Australia may be one of the highest in the world at 28%, about one in four people get it. It is often accompanied by symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, pain in the neck, shoulder, or behind one eye or ear, sensitivity to light, and sensitivity to sound. Some individuals also experience visual disturbances known as auras, which includes blind spots, flashing lights, or zigzag lines. A migraine may occur in four distinct phases although not everyone experiences all of them. These phases include:- Prodrome or preheadache phase: This phase is characterised by symptoms that are not painful and may occur hours or even days before the headache begins. Symptoms often include fatigue, mood swings, food cravings, neck stiffness, frequent yawning, constipation, or increased sensitivity to light and sound.
- Aura phase: Auras refer to sensory changes, such as tingling in the limbs, visual disturbances like flashing lights or blind spots, and speech difficulties. This phase generally lasts between a few minutes and an hour prior to the headache.
- Headache phase: This phase is the core of migraine marked by intense, throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. It may be accompanied by increased sensitivity to sound, smell, and light, vomiting, and nausea. It can last from hours to several days.
- Postdrome or post headache phase: After the headache fades, some people may experience a period of fatigue, confusion, or mood swings. This phase lasts for a few hours to a couple of days.
Causes of migraine
Migraine has a range of probable causes and triggers, which varies between individuals. Common causes and influencing factors include:- Genetics: A family history of migraine can heighten susceptibility.
- Neurovascular changes: Neurochemical disturbances and changes in blood flow may provoke a migraine.
- Environmental factors: Changes in weather, strong smell, bright lights, or lack of sleep can trigger migraines.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations such as menstrual cycle or menopause may start a migraine.
- Dietary triggers: Certain foods and beverages such as caffeine, alcohol, or cheese can initiate a migraine.
- Stress: Sometimes emotional or physical stress may also cause a migraine.
When is it migraine?
A headache is generally recognised as a migraine when it meets the following criteria:- Duration: Migraines often last anywhere from 4 hours to 72 hours (about 3 days) if untreated.
- Intensity: Migraine are usually characterised by throbbing or pulsating pain. The pain is intense and severe and can affect daily activities.
- Location: Migraine is known to usually affect one side of the head but can also be bilateral. It may start on one side and spread or switch sides.
- Associated symptoms: Migraines are generally accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and heightened sensitivity to light and sound. Some people may also experience aura symptoms like visual disruptions or sensory changes before the headache.
- Impact on everyday activities: The intensity of the pain and associated symptoms often make it difficult to perform day-to-day chores and activities, differentiating migraines from minor headaches.
Tension headache vs. Migraine
Tension headaches and migraines are two forms of headaches with distinct features. Tension headaches often produce mild to moderate, dull discomfort that feels like a tight band around the head and can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several days. They usually affect both sides and are often caused by stress or bad posture. Tension headaches are often treated with over-the-counter pain medicines and stress management. Migraines, on the other hand, are characterised by moderate to severe throbbing pain, usually on one side, that lasts between 4 and 72 hours (about 3 days). They are typically accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and a strong sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines may also have an aura, which causes visual abnormalities. Migraines may require specific treatments like triptans and lifestyle changes to avoid triggers. Consulting a healthcare professional is recommended for severe or uncertain symptoms.Sinus headache vs. Migraine
Sinus headaches and migraines are frequently misunderstood due to similar symptoms, yet they have unique features. Sinus headaches are often caused by sinusitis or nasal congestion and are distinguished by a deep, continuous pain in the forehead, cheekbones, or around the eyes. The discomfort typically intensifies with movement or leaning forward and is accompanied by sinus symptoms such as nasal discharge and face pressure. Conversely, migraines are severe, throbbing headaches that typically occur on one side of the head. They can last anywhere from 4 to 72 hours (about 3 days) and are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound. While sinus headaches typically resolve with decongestants or sinus treatments, migraines may require specific medications such as triptans, and lifestyle modifications to manage triggers. Understanding these differences can help in seeking proper treatment.Cluster headache vs. Migraine
Cluster headaches and migraines are both severe types of headaches, although they have distinct features and patterns. Cluster headaches occur in cyclical patterns or clusters, generally at the same time every day, and last between 15 minutes and three hours. The pain is intense and generally limited to one side of the head, commonly around the eye, and may be accompanied by nasal congestion, watery eyes, and restlessness. Migraines, on the other hand, are characterised by moderate to severe throbbing pain that can affect one or both sides of the head and persist between 4 and 72 hours (about 3 days). Migraines are frequently accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound, and they can appear with or without an aura. Cluster headaches often require treatments such as high-flow oxygen therapy or injectable medications while migraines may be managed with triptans and preventive medications, and lifestyle modifications to avoid triggers.When to consult a doctor?
You should consult a doctor if you experience any of the following:- Severe or sudden headaches that feel different from usual
- Frequent headaches occurring more than twice a week
- Headaches accompanied by nausea, vomiting, vision changes, or confusion
- Noticeable changes in headache pattern or intensity
- Headaches following a head injury
- Headaches that persist despite over-the-counter medications.
Can an online doctor's appointment help?
Yes, an virtual doctor's appointment may be useful for many reasons. It allows for easy access to healthcare specialists without the need for travel, making it simpler to discuss issues and seek advice. For headaches, an online consultation can help establish if you need additional assessment or treatments. Doctors might make suggestions, prescribe medications, and propose lifestyle changes based on your symptoms. Furthermore, online consultations are perfect for follow-ups or managing chronic diseases since they allow for continuous connection and assistance. However, if a physical examination is needed, the doctor may suggest an in-person appointment. Overall, online appointments are a useful tool for a variety of health issues. In conclusion, understanding the difference between headaches and migraines is crucial for effective management and treatment. Keeping a headache diary and identifying triggers can help in managing symptoms. Consulting a doctor is recommended for severe persistent headaches to ensure the appropriate care and treatment is given.
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Reference
- Cluster headaches – reference link
- National Health interview survey – reference link
- Thunderclap headache – reference link
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Disclaimer
This content is created for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000.
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