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Migraines and headaches are commonly confused as they both have similar symptoms. However, they have key differences that set them apart. This guide highlights the specific symptoms that separate migraines from headaches and treatments you can try the next time you experience them.
Migraines are often known as more severe headaches, which is not wrong! A symptom of migraines is an intense throbbing pain which is often felt on one side of the head. As this pain is generally more severe than a headache, it can last hours or even days and impact a person’s daily life.
There are a few different types of migraines, but the most common are migraines with an aura and without an aura. An aura is a sensory disturbance; in this case, it is a visual disturbance such as blind spots or flashing lights.
Migraine symptoms can vary, but the most common symptoms are:
Many different factors can trigger a migraine. For example:
It can be useful to keep a migraine diary if you have migraines often. This can help you keep track of how often you have migraines and any possible triggers that are causing your migraines that you can avoid in the future.
As migraines are more intense than headaches, you may need to take stronger medication. However, lifestyle changes can also relieve migraines, so it is important to try a combination of treatments. Some examples of migraine treatments include:
We recommend you speak to your GP if you feel over-the-counter medication is not relieving your migraines.
Headaches are very common and a symptom of many different illnesses. Although they are known to cause discomfort or pain in the head or upper neck, their intensity, location, and duration can vary. Headaches should only last 30 minutes to a few hours.
There are many different types of headaches that are categorised by where the pain is located and its cause. The most common types of headaches and their triggers are:
One of the most common types of primary headaches is a tension headache. You have probably experienced this form of headache before. This is where there is a dull ache on both sides of the head, usually caused by muscle tension in the neck or scalp. Some examples of the possible triggers of tension headaches include:
These types of headaches are rare and extremely painful. They are aptly named cluster headaches as they occur in clusters or particular patterns multiple times a day. The location of cluster headaches is generally focussed around the eye and on one side of the head. Other symptoms of cluster headaches include:
If you are experiencing cluster headaches, it can be helpful to keep away from alcohol, smoking, physical activity/exercise, or even certain smells, such as strong perfumes and nail polish.
These particular headaches are caused by the sinus passage becoming inflamed or blocked or sinusitis. This leads to pain and a build up of pressure in the head, causing sinus headaches. Some common symptoms of sinus headaches are:
Unlike primary headaches (such as the examples listed above), secondary headaches are caused by an underlying health condition. This form of headache is a symptom of illness rather than a result of a lifestyle trigger. Common illnesses that can cause secondary headaches include:
If you are concerned your headache is caused by an underlying health condition, speak to your GP.
This type of headache is uncommon, but you should still be aware of it. Thunderclap headaches can suddenly occur and cause immense pain. They can be caused by serious health conditions. We recommend you seek immediate medical attention if:
The most common headache symptom is a throbbing head or upper neck pain that can vary in location and intensity depending on the type of headache. Other symptoms of headaches include:
There are many factors that can trigger headaches. The severity of your headache can also be affected by these lifestyle triggers. Some examples include:
Headaches have been affecting most people around the world for centuries. That’s why we have a range of tried and tested headache treatments that have helped relieve the symptoms of headaches. Our recommended headache treatments include:
If you are concerned about any of the headache symptoms you are experiencing, speak to your GP for more help and advice.
Headaches are very common and can, in most cases, be relieved with over-the-counter medicine and lifestyle changes. At Home Health, we’ve got you covered. From ibuprofen to paracetamol and cocodamol, we have everything you need to alleviate headache symptoms. Shop Headache and Migraine Relief today from Home Health.
Cocodamol is a combination of paracetamol and coedine. If paracetamol alone or other over-the-counter medications are not relieving your migraines, you could try using cocodamol for migraines. Paracetamol is also good for treating migraines.
Paracetamol is a painkiller that is effective in treating headaches. However, if your headache is particularly intense, paracetamol may not be as effective. In this case, you could try other medication, such as cocodamol, or speak to your GP to see what they recommend.
Don’t forget lifestyle changes and avoiding triggers can also help reduce your symptoms or the frequency of headaches.
Paracetamol is a common treatment for headaches, especially tension headaches. However, if painkillers are not helping, it is a good idea to try a range of lifestyle changes in combination with paracetamol. For example, getting enough rest, staying hydrated, or managing stress can further relieve your symptoms.
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