Headaches and migraines are two common conditions that affect millions of people worldwide. While both conditions involve pain in the head, there are significant differences between them in terms of causes, symptoms, and treatment. In this blog post, our Stoke chiropractor will explore the difference between headaches and migraines.
What is the difference between a headache and a migraine?
Headaches
A headache is a common condition that affects nearly everyone at some point in their life. It is characterized by pain in the head or neck region, and it can be caused by various factors, including stress, dehydration, lack of sleep, caffeine withdrawal, and certain medications.
Headaches can be classified into two types: primary and secondary. Primary headaches are those that are not caused by an underlying medical condition. Examples of primary headaches include tension headaches, cluster headaches, spinal headaches and migraines. Secondary headaches, on the other hand, are caused by an underlying medical condition such as an infection, injury, or tumor.
Tension headaches are the most common type of primary headache. They are usually caused by stress, anxiety, and muscle tension in the neck and shoulders. The pain is usually mild to moderate and is often described as a tight band around the head.
Cluster headaches, on the other hand, are less common but more severe than tension headaches. They occur in cyclical patterns and are characterized by excruciating pain on one side of the head, often around the eye. Cluster headaches can be accompanied by other symptoms such as nasal congestion, watery eyes, and restlessness.
Spinal headaches, also known as cervicogenic headaches, are a type of headache where the pain is associated with neck pain and pain at the bottom of the head. Pain may be experienced in the forehead, over the eyes or temples also. People experiencing this type of headache often describe a vice-like feeling around the head.
Migraines
Migraines are a type of primary headache. It is estimated that around 10 million people in the UK are affected by them. They are more severe than other types of headaches and are often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
Migraines are caused by changes in the brain and its blood vessels. The exact cause of these changes is still not fully understood, but it is believed that genetics, environmental factors, and certain triggers such as stress, certain foods, and hormonal changes can play a role.
Migraines are usually characterised by a pulsing or throbbing pain on one side of the head, although they can occur on both sides. The pain can be moderate to severe and can last anywhere from a few hours to several days.
Migraines can be classified into two types: with aura and without aura. Aura is a group of symptoms that can occur before or during a migraine attack. These symptoms can include visual disturbances such as flashes of light, blind spots, or blurred vision. Some people may also experience numbness or tingling in their face or hands.
The treatment for headaches and migraines depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the symptoms. For tension headaches and cluster headaches, over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen can often provide relief. For more severe cases, prescription medication may be necessary.
Migraines, on the other hand, may require more specialised treatment. There are several types of medication that can be used to treat migraines, including pain relievers, triptans, and ergots. In addition, lifestyle changes such as avoiding triggers, getting regular exercise, and managing stress can also help to prevent migraines.
Can Our Stoke Chiropractors Help With Headaches or Migraines?
To receive the most appropriate treatment if you are suffering from regular headaches, it is essential to ascertain the type and cause of your headache. When you first visit our chiropractic clinic in Stoke, your chiropractor will undertake a comprehensive consultation and examination to determine the type of headache you are experiencing. Many headaches are a result of poor function of the joints and muscles in the neck, known as Cervicogenic headaches. Chiropractic treatment can be effective at relieving the frequency and severity of this type of headache.
Migraines, as well as causing pain, are often accompanied by nausea, visual disturbances, increased sensitivity to light or sound. Chiropractic care has been shown to help migraines.
If you would like to know more about how our Stoke chiropractors can help you then please get in touch by calling City Chiropractic Clinic on 01782 848 184.