Headaches and migraines are terms often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. If you’ve ever wondered why your headache feels different from someone else’s or why it seems to linger longer than usual, you’re not alone. Understanding the differences between headaches and migraines can help you take the right steps toward relief and better management.
Let’s break it down.
Headaches vs. Migraines: What’s the Difference?
A headache is a general term for pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck. It can range from mild to severe and is often caused by stress, diet, upper neck problems, or even poor posture. Most headaches are short-lived and can be managed with rest, hydration, or over-the-counter pain relief.
Migraines, on the other hand, are amore cmplex condition that goes beyond just head pain. They often come with a host of other symptoms, such as nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and even visual disturbances (known as aura). Migraines can last for hours or even days, and they tend to be more debilitating than a typical headache.
For more on this, read Headache or Migraine?
Common Triggers and Symptoms
Both headaches and migraines can be triggered by a variety of factors, but migraines tend to have more specific and complex triggers. Here are some common ones to watch out for:
Lack of sleep
Headache Triggers:
- Stress or tension
- Dehydration
- Poor posture
- Lack of sleep
- Excessive screen time
Migraine Triggers:
- Stress
- Lack of sleep
- Hormonal changes (e.g., during menstruation)
- Certain foods and drinks (e.g., aged cheese, caffeine, alcohol)
- Weather changes or barometric pressure shifts
- Bright lights or loud noises
- Strong smells (e.g., perfumes or cleaning products)
Symptoms to Look Out For:
- Headaches: Dull or throbbing pain, can be on one side or both sides of the head.
- Migraines: Intense, pulsating pain, often on one side of the head, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
For more information read: Understanding triggers
When Should You Seek Professional Help?
While occasional headaches are common and usually not a cause for concern, there are times when it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Here’s when you should consider seeking help:
- Your headaches or migraines are becoming more frequent or severe.
- Over-the-counter medications are no longer effective
- You want to decrease your medication use
- Your headaches are accompanied by neurological symptoms like confusion, weakness, dizziness or vision changes.
- Your headaches are impacting your work or social life
At Sydney Headache and Migraine Centre, we are experts in helping people, just like you, find relief and a management plan. Our team of practitioners will develop a personalised treatment plan, specific to your headache/migraine presentation, to help you regain control of your life.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
If headaches or migraines are interfering with your daily life, don’t wait to seek help. Visit our website at www.headacheandmigraine.sydney to learn more about how we can support you. Ready to take action? Book an appointment today and let us help you find the relief you deserve.
Book A Migraine/Headache Assessment
Book online or give us a call on 1300MyHeadache (1300 694 323) to organise an assessment with Sydney Headache & Migraine Centre and learn more about what causes your migraines and how we can help treat them.
