There are several differences between headaches and migraines, including:
Headaches typically cause pain on both sides of the head, while migraines are usually felt on one side.
Migraines are often more severe than regular headaches.
Migraines often feel like a throbbing or pounding, while headaches can feel like a band or vice around the head.
Migraines can cause nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, mood changes, fatigue, and sensitivity to light, sound, or noise.
A typical headache lasts between 5 minutes and 4 hours, while migraines can last for days or even longer. Migraines may last between 24 and 36 hours, and often follow a pattern.
Headaches (especially tension) can be triggered by stress, anxiety, muscle strain, or eyestrain.
Migraine can be triggered being on your period; and even certain foods, such as cheese or marmite.
The prodrome is the first phase of a migraine attack and can be a key warning sign. It’s characterised by a range of physical and mental changes that can occur up to 48 hours before a headache
Migraines can have a postdrome stage that lasts for a few hours up to 48 hours. This stage can feel similar to an alcohol-induced hangover.
Most people will be able to identify a pattern to the headache. But if you’re having more than five migraines a month, you should see your GP.
