Almost all of us experience headaches at some point. As per World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 50% of adults face headache disorders globally. Pain and pressure are symptoms of headaches and migraines that make it hard to differentiate between the two.
Migraine is a neurological condition and may require you to consult a Neurologist in Lahore, whereas over-the-counter painkillers can treat a regular headache.
Types of Headaches
Headaches can cause pain in the whole head or can be in a specific location. The position and the intensity of the headache can determine its type, while some headaches may even be an indicator of an underlying condition. Here are the different types of headaches you should know about:
· Tension Headache
Usually, a large percentage of people who have headaches are tension or tension-type headaches. It is mild to moderate pain with a feeling of pressure around the head. The headache can last for a few minutes or a few days. They start at the back of the head and spread to the front. Causes of tension headaches include:
● Hunger
● Stress
● Depression
● Sleeplessness
● Incorrect posture
● Neck strains
· Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches start suddenly for short periods and then disappear. They can keep recurring, sometimes lasting for days or even months in some cases. It usually affects only half of your head and your eye. Cluster headaches are rare, but those who have them know how they can affect the quality of life.
· Sinus Headaches
These headaches are frequent in people who have sinusitis or other sinus-related infections. Sinus headaches show up with the symptoms, such as:
● Congestion
● Stuffy nose
● Cough
● Fever
Migraine Symptoms
Even with headache being the most typical symptom of migraine, it isn’t the only one. Migraine is a neurological illness that needs to be taken care of by a specialist. Migraine headaches are much more unpleasant than everyday headaches. Those who suffer from migraine may also experience the following symptoms, apart from headache:
● Lightheadedness
● Irritability and fatigue
● Nausea
● Firmness in the neck
● Mood Swings
● Light and sound sensitivity
● Pain around your eyes
Migraine Phases
Migraines are more than just headaches and come in stages. Different phases of migraines may present with varying signs. Luckily, not everyone may go through all of them. The four phases of migraine are:
· Predrome Phase:
Predrome or premonitory phase is the pre-migraine stage. You may feel painless symptoms, such as fluctuating mood, cravings, or a stiff neck.
· Aura Phase:
The aura phase can take place before or during the migraine. It creates sensory disturbances such as irritation due to sound or light, blurry vision, seeing blind spots, or trouble concentrating.
· Headache Phase:
The headache phase is the most crucial stage because this is when the headache starts. The headache can last for 4 hours to 72 hours, depending on the intensity. In this time, the migraine headache becomes a full-blown migraine attack.
· Postdromal Phase:
In this phase, the pain subsides. However, people may feel tired, confused, or ill during this phase.
Migraines vs. Headaches.
A migraine headache can be excruciatingly painful, making day-to-day tasks difficult. It’s more likely to affect only one side of the head, but it can also cause pain on both sides. Headaches are easier to deal with and often don’t present with additional symptoms. On the other hand, migraines can make life difficult and a Neurologist in Karachi or near you can help you manage it.