Migraine

How To Tell The Difference Between A Migraine And A Headache

The words “headache” and “migraine” are often used interchangeably, but the differences count when it comes to diagnosis and treatment.

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If you think of headaches and migraines as one and the same, you’re not alone, and you’re not completely wrong.

Put simply: A migraine is a type of headache, one of the most common types according to the Cleveland Clinic. Migraines and headaches have important similarities, but also important differences.

Headaches

At the root of a headache is the trigeminal nerve, which directs sensations from the scalp, skull, face, mouth, neck, throat, ears and eyes. Headaches occur when trigeminal nerve endings react to certain triggers - which can be anything from stress to food to the weather - then send pain signals to the brain.

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For this reason, any pain sensed by the trigeminal nerve is considered to be a headache. Not all headaches require a doctor’s attention.

Migraines

A migraine is a kind of serious, recurring headache. Migraines are specifically known for a throbbing or pulsating pain, and are characterized by discomfort on one side of the head or behind the eye. A migraine can last anywhere from a couple of hours to several days. Migraines are also associated with a sensitivity to light and sounds, and potential nausea and vomiting.

Migraines are about three times more common in women than men. They often run in families and start at an early age, and can pop up through most of a person’s adult life.

The Confusing Part

Every person experiences headaches and migraines differently. For some, a nap or an over-the-counter medication can do the trick. For others, lifestyle changes or preventative medicines may be required.

Experts recommend keeping a journal of your symptoms, including what time of day they started, what you ate or drank, how long the pain lasted and more. This can help a medical professional diagnose you and determine the best course of treatment.

The Weather Company does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Talk with your doctor before starting any new medicine, supplement, weight loss or exercise regimen.

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