(KXNET) — We have all dealt with the pain we experience in our heads at some point in our lives.
Some are more severe than others, and distinguishing between a headache and a migraine can be difficult.
“You can function with a headache, but not with a migraine,” said Mary Sadler, FNP-C in Trinity Health’s Neurology Department.
Headaches
According to the Mayo Clinic, a headache is any pain in the head, on either one or both sides, that is isolated to one spot or radiates from side to side. This pain could be a sharp pain, a throbbing sensation, or even a dull ache.
“It’s a pain in the neck. “You can work through headaches,” Sadler explained.
Headaches can develop slowly or quickly and last anywhere from an hour to several days.
Primary and secondary headaches are the two types of headaches. Secondary headaches are a symptom of a disease that activates pain-sensitive nerves, whereas primary headaches are caused by overactivity or problems with pain-sensitive structures.
Alcohol (especially red wine), certain (processed) foods, changes in sleep or lack of sleep, poor posture, skipped meals, and stress are common causes of primary headaches.
Dehydration, hangovers, the flu, or dental problems can all cause secondary headaches.
Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or Tylenol are commonly used to treat headaches. Hydration is also important, as is eating regularly and sleeping enough.
Migraines
According to the Mayo Clinic, migraines are severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation on one side of the head.
They are frequently accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound, and they can last for several hours to several days.
“It usually affects one side of the head, but sometimes both. You may experience nausea, light sensitivity, noise sensitivity, and changes in your vision. “People must confine themselves to a dark room,” Sadler added.
There are daily migraine prevention treatments as well as doctor-prescribed medications. If you have a migraine, you can usually treat it with over-the-counter medications. Your lifestyle, such as yoga, meditation, or eating healthy, can also help prevent them.
“If people are suffering, talk to your primary care physician. “Having a headache every day or every other day is not normal,” Sadler explained.
Erin Balsa is a highly skilled and knowledgeable health journalist with a passion for educating the public on important health and wellness topics. With extensive experience in both traditional and digital media, Erin has established herself as a trusted voice in the field.