Migraines vs. Headaches: Know the Differences

Ouch! A headache's nagging, throbbing pain is common and, most of the time, not a cause for concern. Anyone can have a headache, including children, adolescents and adults. About 96% of people will experience a headache at least once in their lives. About 40% of people will have tension-type headaches, and 10% of people experience migraine headaches.

Not all headaches are created equal. Understanding the difference between a regular headache and a migraine can help determine the best course of treatment. Most headache pain can be managed with simple remedies. But what happens if the pain comes after a head injury? We’ll walk you through the different types of headaches and ways to tell if your head pain is a sign of a bigger problem.

What is a headache?

Headache pain results from signals interacting with your brain, blood vessels and surrounding nerves. Multiple mechanisms activate specific nerves during a headache that affect muscles and blood vessels. These nerves send pain signals to your brain, causing a headache. They can be triggered by stress, dehydration or even that third cup of coffee.

Warning signs and symptoms of a headache include:

• Dull, aching pain.
• Pressure or tightness around the forehead or sides of the head.
• Sensitivity to light or sound.

There are several types of headaches, and tension headaches are the most common. Headaches can differ greatly in pain type, severity, location and frequency.

How To Treat a Headache

A headache can be treated from home using these remedies:

• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be effective.
• Rest: Find a dark, quiet room to relax in.
• Compresses: Cold or warm compresses can help alleviate the discomfort.

What’s the difference between a headache and a migraine?

Migraines are more than just bad headaches. They are a type of primary headache disorder and a common neurological condition that causes various symptoms, such as throbbing on one side of the head. Migraines often worsen with physical activity, lights, sounds or smells. They usually last at least four hours to several days.

Identifying migraine triggers, such as certain foods, stress or changes in sleep patterns, can help you manage them more effectively.

Warning signs and symptoms of a migraine include:

• Throbbing or pulsing pain, usually on one side of the head.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Sensitivity to light, sound or smell.
• Visual disturbances, such as auras.

How to Treat a Migraine

Migraines can be treated through a combination of medications and lifestyle modifications including:

• Prescription medications: Triptans or beta-blockers prescribed by your doctor.
• Avoiding triggers: Keep a diary to note what might trigger your migraines.
• Relaxation techniques: Meditation, yoga and deep breathing can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.

Drugs for high blood pressure, seizures and depression can sometimes prevent migraines. Your health care provider may recommend trying one of these medications to reduce headache frequency.

When To Go to the Emergency Room for Head Pain

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s time to head to the emergency room.

• A sudden, new and severe headache.
• Headache with a fever, shortness of breath, stiff neck or rash.
• Headaches that occur after a head injury or accident.
• Getting a new type of headache after age 55.

Don’t wait to seek emergency care if your headache is associated with these neurological symptoms:

• Weakness.
• Dizziness.
• Sudden loss of balance or falling.
• Numbness or tingling.
• Paralysis.
• Speech difficulties.
• Mental confusion.
• Seizures.
• Personality changes/inappropriate behavior.
• Vision changes (blurry vision, double vision or blind spots).

Head Injuries with Headache

Head injuries range from mild concussions to severe trauma. They often result from falls, sports injuries, or accidents. With a head injury, it’s common to have a headache and nausea. You may be dizzy or disoriented right afterward.

Warning signs of head injuries include:

• Confusion or memory loss.
• Ringing in the ears.
• Neck pain.
• Dizziness or loss of balance.
• A headache that worsens over time.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Emotional or vision problems.

Treatment After a Head Injury

A head injury can be treated with this protocol:

• Rest: Avoid activities that could lead to another injury.
• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medications can help with mild pain.
• Follow medical advice: For more severe injuries, go to the emergency room or urgent care to be evaluated by a doctor.

If the headache persists, doesn’t get better after medication, or your vision changes, go to the emergency room or urgent care.

Headache Prevention

The key to preventing headaches is figuring out what triggers them. Triggers are specific to each person, and what gives you a headache may not be a problem for others. Once you determine your triggers, you can work to avoid or minimize them. For example, you may find that strong scents set you off. Avoiding perfumes and scented products can make a big difference in how many headaches you have. The same goes for common triggers like troublesome foods, lack of sleep and poor posture.

Many people, however, can’t avoid triggers or are unable to identify triggers. It’s important to consult your health care provider to develop a wellness plan and adopt healthy lifestyle changes to support your body.

Get Immediate Care for Your Headache or Migraine

ProMedica Toledo Hospital Emergency and Urgent Care provides patients with quality care and services. Staff are ER-trained to determine patient conditions, and patients only pay for the level of service they receive - either ER or urgent care. The emergency department is open 24/7 and the urgent care clinic is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. You don't need an appointment. All walk-ins are welcome.

ProMedica Toledo Hospital Emergency and Urgent Care is located at 1075 Medical Center Parkway, Maumee, Ohio 43537.