Tension vs migraine headache
Tension vs migraine headache
A tension-type headache is the most common type, and the one that customers may think of as a normal everyday headache,3 which may be described as a constant ache affecting both sides of the head.
Migraines, however, are moderate to severe in nature, usually with throbbing on one side of the head.4
In both cases, your expert advice and guidance is crucial. Below are some key differences between the two types of headache to help your consultations:*
Key differences
| Tension headache | Migraine | |
|---|---|---|
| Location of pain as described | Base of the skull and upper of the neck. Pain is the same on both sides.3,5 | Usually on one side of the head.4 |
| Type of pain as described | Dull, like a band around the head. Not aggravated by physical activity.3 | Severe, pulsating, pounding or throbbing.5 |
| Associated symptoms | No specific associated symptoms.6 Muscles in the back of the neck and head can feel tender to touch.5,7 | Nausea, vomiting and/or phonophobia and photophobia.4 |
| Duration | Usually 30 minutes to several hours, but can last for several days.3 | Several hours to 3 days.4 |
| Triggers | Include: stress, poor posture, tiredness, certain smells, dehydration and noise.1 | Include: stress, tiredness and menstruation, certain foods/drink.3 |
| Aggravated by physical activity? | Not aggravated by routine physical activity.6 | Yes.4 |
*Information is typical for each population but may not apply to all tension headache or migraine sufferers
Those associated with a recent HEAD INJURY
Those that come on suddenly and are EXTREMELY PAINFUL
Extremely painful headaches with additional symptoms such as affected vision, the white part of the EYE IS RED, DROWSINESS/CONFUSION, any signs of meningitis or problems speaking.