Migraine or tension headache? How to tell the difference and find relief

Our head is a richly innervated and extremely vascularised structure, which can lead to different types of pain. It includes several sensitive areas such as the scalp, muscles, sinuses or nerves which can be distressed and cause headaches. 

And as the website Linternaute states, the brain itself, being devoid of pain receptors, cannot be the source of our headaches. It's rather the peripheral tissues (arteries, meninges, cranial nerves or muscles) that cause the suffering. Thus, the pains we feel in the head, known as headaches, can be caused by many factors. Stress, hormonal changes, fatigue, muscle tension, dehydration, vision problems, ENT conditions, are all possible causes of our pain. 

Headaches, what symptoms? 

The generic medical term "headache" simply refers to a headache. The most common type of headache is the tension headache, caused by stress or fatigue. It manifests as a diffuse and constant pressure, like a tight band around the skull, explains Linternaute. In general, tension headaches are moderate, they don't intensify with physical effort and aren't accompanied by vomiting or nausea. Secondary factors, including vision problems, sinusitis or an infection, can also be responsible for headaches. If these are sudden, intense, unusual, or associated with confusion or dizziness, it's necessary to consult a doctor urgently.

Migraine, like throbbing in the head

It should be noted that migraine is a type of headache. It fits within the definition of this generic term. But, unlike tension headaches, migraines are generally pulsatile (a throbbing sensation) and unilateral. Before the headache itself, some individuals suffer from what is called a migraine aura, that is to say, language disorders, numbness, and visual disturbances; physical symptoms that precede the headache and can persist for a good hour.

Relieving a headache

To relieve a headache, one must consider the type of headache experienced. In the case of a tension headache, the first thing to do is rest, hydrate, and stop exposure to screens. Massage can also help relax the neck muscles and thus relieve tension. If the pain persists, painkillers can be taken occasionally. And if it's a migraine pounding the head, it's advisable to rest in a dark and quiet place. Painkillers can also take effect if the pain is too intense. Furthermore, certain factors such as stress, lack of sleep or diet can act as triggers. Once identified, it's easier to avoid headaches. 

(MH with Raphaël Liset - Source: Linternaute - Illustration: ©Unsplash)