Headache vs. Migraine: How to Tell the Difference and Get Relief

Many people call any type of head pain a "headache," but headaches and migraines are actually quite different. Knowing how to tell them apart can help you manage your symptoms better and get the right kind of treatment.

What is a Headache?

A headache usually causes mild to moderate pain or discomfort in your head, face, or neck. There are several types of headaches, including tension headaches, cluster headaches, and sinus headaches. Tension headaches, the most common type, often feel like a tight band around your head. They are usually caused by stress, bad posture, or being tired.

Symptoms of a Headache:

• Mild to moderate dull pain

• Pressure or tightness around the head or behind the eyes

• Usually affects both sides of your head

• Often short-term and gets better with over-the-counter medication

What is a Migraine?

Migraines are more intense and complicated than regular headaches. Migraines involve the nervous system and can seriously interfere with your daily life. Migraine pain is often throbbing or pulsing, usually affecting only one side of the head, and it comes with other symptoms as well.

Symptoms of a Migraine:

• Strong, throbbing pain, often on one side of the head

• Sensitivity to light, sound, and sometimes smells

• Nausea or vomiting

• Visual problems or an "aura," such as seeing flashes of light or zigzag patterns

• Lasting from a few hours to several days

Key Differences:

• Pain Level: Migraines typically cause severe pain, while headaches are usually mild to moderate.

• Additional Symptoms: Migraines often include nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to sensory input like lights and sounds—symptoms that aren't common with regular headaches.

• Duration: Migraines usually last longer, from hours to days, whereas regular headaches usually go away more quickly.

When to See a Healthcare Provider:

If you have frequent or severe headaches or migraines that interfere with your life, it's important to get help from a healthcare provider. Getting the right diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference in your daily well-being.

At Renew Migraine and Wellness Center, we combine neurology and holistic care to offer personalized treatments, helping you identify your specific triggers and manage your symptoms effectively.

Understanding what you're experiencing is the first step towards feeling better, and we're here to support you every step of the way.

Brooke Phenicie, APRN-FPA, CAQH