Headaches are one of the most common symptoms we experience – but how do I know if it’s just a headache or if I am having a migraine? What are the differences between the two and how can I treat them?
Three Common Types of Headaches
Tension Headaches. The most common; pain starts from the back of the neck and creeps forward to the forehead and temples, and can be triggered by tight neck/shoulder muscles, eye strain, stress, or hunger.
Cluster Headaches: tend to be more painful; pain stays on one side of the head (above or behind the eye), comes on around the same time every day and can be triggered by bright lights or physical exertion
Sinus Headaches: tends to be more painful in the morning and when bending forward; caused by the swelling of the sinus passages and come hand in hand with sinus congestion.
Headaches should be treated with over-the-counter pain medications and relaxation techniques:
| Aspirin | Excedrin |
| Acetaminophen (Tylenol) | Neck Stretches/Massages |
| Ibuprofen (Motrin) | Meditation |
| Caffeine | Heat Therapy |
Migraines can be more intense and severe than headaches, but symptoms that classify it specifically as a migraine include:
- Intense throbbing (commonly on one side of the head)
- Nausea/vomiting
- Dizziness
- Sensitivity to light/sound/smell
- Changes in vision
- Extreme fatigue
- Inability to do daily tasks.
Migraines are typically treated with prescription medications – talk to your healthcare provider to discuss options for treatment.
