At some point in your life, you may have the unfortunate experience of getting a migraine. Many people refer to migraines as "headaches." However, significant differences exist between migraine headaches and regular tension headaches. These are some of the differences between the two.
Regular tension headaches can be anywhere, and they usually occur in a more generalized area than migraines. They can happen in the forehead, back of the neck, scalp, or even in the temples. Migraines have a particular site at which they like to strike. They usually cause pain around the temple area. Additionally, the pain of a migraine is typically stabbing and disruptive. The severity is generally bad enough to make a person miss work or have to lie down, and the individual still may not feel relief.
There is definitely a difference in the pain severity of a tension headache as compared to a migraine. A tension headache can be mild, or it can be moderate at its worst. A migraine will be moderate at its best and severe at its worst. Some people describe migraine pain as being excruciating pain that they cannot bear.
Tensions headaches can occur for a variety of reasons. However, the main reason that a person gets a tension headache is stress. It could be financial stress, work stress, or a problem in their relationship. Migraines have a variety of causes, as well. Some of the most common causes of migraine headaches are allergies, brain chemical imbalances, hormone imbalances, weather changes, and sleep disruptions.
Tension headaches have a different onset time than migraines do. Tension headaches usually increase gradually, and they fluctuate. These types of headaches may last several days. Migraine headaches increase progressively, as well, but they typically peak in four to 24 hours. Their peaks can cause severe amounts of pain. Many people who suffer from migraines lack functionality in everyday life. Vomiting is also common in migraines, but it does not usually happen when a person has a tension headache.
The treatment for a tension headache is usually simple. Analgesics such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen will usually suffice to resolve a tension headache. Removing oneself from the source of stress may help, as well. Migraines may require a more in-depth treatment plan. A doctor may have to conduct testing to find the root cause of the migraines. If they are related to allergies, then the sufferer may need to take allergy medications to prevent the migraines from occurring. Prescription pain pills may be necessary for the migraines. Doctors have also been known to prescribe antidepressants, beta-blockers, and anticonvulsants to treat migraines.
Now you know the difference between a tension headache and a migraine. You should see a doctor if you are experiencing the symptoms of a migraine. You may need medical testing and a specific regimen of treatment to stop the symptoms.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.