A headache can occur due to stress, dehydration, lack of sleep, or other causes. A migraine is a specific neurological condition that can cause more intense pain and additional symptoms. Understanding the differences can help you recognise when medical advice is needed.
1. Location of the Pain
- Common headache: Tension headaches often cause dull pain or pressure on both sides of the head, forehead, or around the neck.
- Migraine: Pain often affects one side of the head, although it can occur on both sides.
2. Intensity of the Pain
- Common headache: Pain is usually mild to moderate and may feel like tightness or pressure.
- Migraine: Pain is often moderate to severe and may feel throbbing or pulsating.
3. Sensitivity to Light and Sound
- Common headache: Sensitivity to light or sound is generally less prominent, particularly with tension headaches.
- Migraine: Bright lights, loud sounds, and sometimes strong smells may worsen symptoms.
4. Nausea and Vomiting
- Common headache: Nausea and vomiting are less common with tension headaches.
- Migraine: Nausea and vomiting may occur, sometimes making everyday activities difficult.
5. Effect on Daily Activities
- Common headache: People can often continue their routine, although the discomfort may affect concentration.
- Migraine: Physical activity, walking, or climbing stairs may worsen the pain, forcing the person to rest.
6. Duration of the Pain
- Common headache: A tension headache can last from 30 minutes to several days.
- Migraine: An untreated migraine attack typically lasts between 4 and 72 hours in adults.
7. Warning Signs Before the Pain
- Common headache: Tension headaches usually do not involve neurological warning symptoms.
- Migraine: Some people experience an aura, such as flashing lights, zigzag lines, blind spots, or tingling before or during the headache. Not everyone with migraine experiences an aura.
When should you seek medical attention?
Consult a doctor if headaches are frequent, worsening, or interfering with daily life. Seek emergency medical care for a sudden, extremely severe headache or a headache accompanied by weakness, confusion, difficulty speaking, fever with a stiff neck, or sudden vision loss.
Remember: Symptoms can overlap, and not every migraine affects only one side of the head. A healthcare professional can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
