Migraine vs Headache: How to Know the Difference

Understanding the difference can help you get the right treatment instead of just temporary relief.

What Is a Regular Headache?

A common headache, often called a tension headache, is usually caused by stress, fatigue, dehydration, or long hours in front of screens.

Symptoms of a Normal Headache

Dull, aching pain on both sides of the head
Feeling of tightness or pressure around the forehead or back of the head
Mild to moderate pain
Usually does not cause nausea or vision problems
You can still continue your daily routine

These headaches are uncomfortable but typically not disabling.

What Is a Migraine?

A migraine is more than just a bad headache. It is a neurological condition that can cause intense pain along with other symptoms that interfere with daily life.

Migraines often occur in episodes and can last from 4 hours to even 3 days if untreated.

Symptoms of Migraine

Throbbing or pulsating pain, often on one side of the head
Moderate to severe intensity
Nausea or vomiting
Sensitivity to light, sound, or strong smells
Blurred vision or seeing flashing lights (called aura in some patients)
Pain that worsens with physical activity like walking or climbing stairs

Unlike regular headaches, migraines can make it very difficult to work, study, or even have normal conversations.

How Migraine Differs From a Regular Headache

A regular headache usually feels like a constant pressure or tight band around the head and is manageable. A migraine, on the other hand, often feels like a pulsating pain, typically on one side, and is commonly accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.

People with tension headaches can usually continue their activities, while migraine sufferers often need to lie down in a dark, quiet room until the attack passes.

Migraine Triggers You Should Know

Migraine attacks are often linked to specific triggers. Identifying them can help reduce how often attacks happen.

Common triggers include:

Stress or lack of sleep
Skipping meals
Hormonal changes (especially in women)
Excessive screen time
Strong smells or bright lights
Certain foods like chocolate, cheese, or sudden caffeine withdrawal

When Should You See a Doctor?

Occasional mild headaches are common. But you should seek medical advice if:

✔ Headaches are frequent or severe
✔ Pain interferes with your daily routine
✔ You experience nausea, vision problems, or dizziness
✔ Pain suddenly becomes the worst headache of your life
✔ Headaches start after a head injury
✔ You need painkillers more than twice a week

Proper diagnosis is important because migraine treatment is different from regular headache treatment.

How Migraines Are Treated

Treatment depends on how often migraines occur and how severe they are. A doctor may recommend:

Medicines to stop a migraine once it starts
Preventive medications for frequent attacks
Lifestyle adjustments like better sleep and stress management
Identifying and avoiding personal triggers

With the right care, migraine attacks can be controlled and reduced significantly.

Don’t Ignore Repeated Head Pain

Repeated headaches are your body’s way of signaling that something needs attention. Self-medicating for months without diagnosis can delay proper treatment and affect your quality of life.

If you or your loved one suffers from recurrent or severe headaches, consult the specialists at Shantidevi Healthcare Multispeciality Hospital for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

Your health deserves more than temporary relief — it deserves the right diagnosis.