That throbbing pain in your head – is it just a headache, or something more? Understanding the difference between a headache and a migraine is key to effective treatment and feeling better, faster.
Headaches are generally characterized by pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck. They can range from mild and annoying to intense and debilitating. Common causes include stress, tension, or dehydration.
Migraines, however, are a neurological condition. While a headache is a symptom, migraines involve a cascade of changes in the brain, often accompanied by other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light (photophobia) and sound (phonophobia). Some people experience an 'aura' before a migraine, which can involve visual disturbances like flashing lights or blind spots.
So, how can you tell the difference? Consider the accompanying symptoms. If you're experiencing nausea, light sensitivity, or an aura, it's more likely a migraine. Simple pain relief might help with a headache, but migraines often require specific medication prescribed by a doctor. Understanding your symptoms is the first step to managing them effectively.
