Headaches are a common problem for many people. They can be caused by a variety of factors, such as stress, dehydration, and lack of sleep. Tension headaches and migraines are two of the most common types of headaches. While they share some symptoms, they are different conditions and require different treatments. In this article, we will discuss the top three signs that your tension headache is actually a migraine.
Here are the top three signs that your tension headache is actually a migraine;
1. Aura
One of the most significant differences between a tension headache and a migraine is the presence of an aura. An aura is a set of symptoms that can occur before the onset of a migraine. These symptoms of tension headache is actually a migraine and can include visual disturbances, such as seeing flashing lights, zigzag lines, or blind spots. Other common aura symptoms include tingling or numbness in the face or hands, difficulty speaking, and weakness on one side of the body.
A tension headache does not typically have an aura. Instead, the pain is usually described as a constant, dull ache that affects both sides of the head. The pain may be accompanied by tightness or pressure in the forehead or temples.
2. Sensitivity to Light and Sound
Another key difference between tension headaches and migraines is sensitivity to light and sound. People with migraines often experience a heightened sensitivity to light and sound, which can exacerbate their symptoms. They may feel the need to retreat to a dark, quiet room to find relief.
In contrast to tension headache is actually a migraine, people with tension headaches may not have the same sensitivity to light and sound. They may still find these stimuli uncomfortable, but they do not typically exacerbate the pain in the same way that they do for people with migraines.
3. Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of tension headache is actually a migraine but are less common in tension headaches. People with migraines may experience nausea and vomiting in addition to other symptoms, such as aura, sensitivity to light and sound, and intense pain. Nausea and vomiting may be severe enough to interfere with daily activities and require medical attention.
In contrast, people with tension headaches may experience mild nausea or none at all. They may also be able to continue with their daily activities, although they may feel less productive than usual.
Other Symptoms to Look For
While the three signs of a tension headache is actually a migraine discussed above are helpful in distinguishing between tension headaches and migraines, there are other symptoms that can also be indicative of a migraine. These include:
- Throbbing or pulsating pain: Migraine pain is often described as throbbing or pulsating, whereas tension headache pain is typically described as a constant ache.
- One-sided pain: Migraine pain often affects one side of the head, although it can also affect both sides. Tension headache pain typically affects both sides of the head.
- Duration: Migraines typically last longer than tension headaches. A migraine can last anywhere from a few hours to several days, whereas a tension headache usually lasts a few hours to a day.
- Activity level: Migraine pain can be so severe that it interferes with daily activities, such as work or school. People with tension headaches may still be able to function relatively normally, although they may feel less productive than usual.
- Family history: Migraines often run in families. If you have a family history of migraines, you may be more likely to experience them yourself.
Treatment Options
The treatment options for tension headaches and migraines are different. Tension headaches can often be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Rest, relaxation techniques, and stress reduction may also be helpful.
Migraines, on the other hand, may require prescription medications to manage the symptoms. Triptans are a class of medications specifically designed to treat migraines. They work by constricting blood vessels in the brain and reducing inflammation. Other prescription medications, such as beta-blockers, anticonvulsants, and antidepressants, may also be used to prevent migraines from occurring.
In addition to medication, lifestyle changes can also be helpful in managing migraines. This includes getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, avoiding trigger foods (such as chocolate, cheese, and red wine), and reducing stress through techniques such as meditation or yoga.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience frequent or severe headaches, it is important to see a doctor because signs of tension headache is actually a migraine. They can help determine the underlying cause of your headaches and recommend appropriate treatment options.
You should also seek medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms along with your headaches:
- Severe head pain that comes on suddenly
- Head pain that worsens over time
- Head pain accompanied by confusion, difficulty speaking, or weakness on one side of the body
- Head pain accompanied by fever, stiff neck, or rash
- Head pain following a head injury
BOTTOM LINE
While tension headaches and migraines share some symptoms, they are different conditions that require different treatment approaches. If you experience frequent or severe headaches, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and find appropriate treatment options. By paying attention to the symptoms discussed in this article, you can help distinguish between tension headaches and migraines and take steps to manage your symptoms effectively.
