Migraine vs. Headache: How to Tell the Difference

Many people use the terms "migraine" and "headache" interchangeably, but they are distinctly different conditions requiring different treatments.

Regular Headaches

Tension Headaches

• Dull, aching pain on both sides of the head
• Feels like a tight band around the head
• Mild to moderate intensity
• No nausea or vomiting
• Can last 30 minutes to several hours

Cluster Headaches

• Severe pain around one eye
• Occur in clusters over weeks or months
• Very intense but short-lived (15 minutes to 3 hours)

Migraines

Key Characteristics

• Moderate to severe throbbing pain
• Usually one-sided (but can be both)
• Lasts 4-72 hours if untreated
• Worsens with physical activity

Associated Symptoms

• Nausea and vomiting
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Sensitivity to sound (phonophobia)
• Visual disturbances (aura)
• Dizziness

The Migraine Aura

About 25% of migraine sufferers experience aura—warning signs that occur before the headache:

• Visual changes (flashing lights, zigzag lines)
• Numbness or tingling
• Difficulty speaking
• Temporary vision loss

When to See a Neurologist

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden, severe headache ("thunderclap")
• Headache with fever, stiff neck, or confusion
• Headache after head injury
• Chronic headaches that worsen over time
• Headaches that disrupt daily life

Treatment Approaches

For Tension Headaches

• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Stress management
• Physical therapy

For Migraines

• Preventive medications
• Acute treatments (triptans)
• Lifestyle modifications
• Botox injections (for chronic migraines)
• CGRP inhibitors

Keeping a Headache Diary

Track your headaches to identify patterns:

• Date and time
• Duration and intensity
• Location of pain
• Triggers (food, stress, sleep)
• Medications taken

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Struggling with chronic headaches or migraines? Our neurology clinic offers comprehensive headache management. Book a consultation today.