Headaches are a common occurrence in many individuals’ day-to-day lives. On the other hand, migraines are a little less common and more than just a regular headache. Also, the symptoms of migraines are intense and more painful than a headache. Listed below are some more points that can help you analyze the difference between migraine and headache:

The kind of pain
A tension headache is caused due to the contraction of muscles between the head and neck. An individual experiences dull pain across the head that commonly lasts for half an hour. In contrast, a migraine attack causes moderate to severe throbbing or pulsating pain at the front or side of the head. In this condition, the pain can even last for a few days and is usually accompanied with multiple other symptoms.

Signs and symptoms
In order to understand the differences between a migraine and headache, it is important to assess the symptoms displayed by both. A headache does not usually show any sign before happening; whereas, a severe attack of migraine gives visual, auditory, psychological, and physiological symptoms. It is important to note that each person may experience symptoms differently, and may gradually adapt to them. Migraines are easier to manage when you familiarize yourself with the symptoms and learn how to tackle them.

Triggers
Triggers for headaches may include sudden stress, anxiety, tiredness, hunger, dehydration, noise, certain smells, and sunlight. In contrast, a migraine may be caused by anything from menstruation, menopause, low blood sugar, hypoglycemia, alcohol, and foods loaded with sugar, among others. For some people, migraines can also be a result of hormonal changes and chemical reactions in the brain.

During sleep
A tension headache rarely attacks when you are asleep, whereas migraines often occur during sleep. The relationship between migraine and sleep is complicated; and diagnosing migraine needs professional intervention.

Treatment
Headaches can be managed with over-the-counter medicines and relaxation techniques. In case of migraines, it is best to understand the triggers so that they can be easily avoided. Medicines, colored glasses, and various alternative therapies can also prevent the occurrence of severe migraine episodes.

Nausea
Nausea is a key difference between a migraine and headache. If you throw up several times or constantly feel the urge to throw up, then it is an indication that you may be having a migraine attack. You are less likely to feel nauseous with a regular headache.

Whether it is a headache or migraine, it is necessary to find the cause of the pain. To clearly spot the difference between migraine and headache, you can note down the above-mentioned points. In case you fail to analyze the situation, you can consult a doctor.