What Is The Difference Between A Headache And A Migraine?

Headaches are one of the most common pain complaints among adults, although children are also afflicted. Headaches range from minor discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. Some people rarely experience a headache, while others live with them on an almost daily basis. There are countless triggers for headaches, but when it comes to types, there are basically two: Tension headaches, and migraines. There is a third type of a headache, called a cluster headache, but they are far less common and are thought to be related to migraines.

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Causes Of Headache & Migraine Pain

Tension headaches are a blanket term for the majority of headaches. These headaches are triggered very often by subluxations in the upper back and neck due to anything from poor posture, using the wrong pillow for sleeping, looking at a television or monitor for too long, old or new spinal injury or eye strain. Other causes of headaches may be environmental, such as pollen, pet dander, and cigarette smoke, household chemicals or perfumes.

When it comes to addressing these kinds of headaches, the first step is to determine the trigger. For example, if you experience headaches due to an allergy to environmental factors, you can identify them and either eliminate or reduce your exposure.

It may be more difficult to identify other causes of tension headaches. Most physicians don't treat tension headaches. The standard advice given is to take an over-the-counter medication.

Migraine headaches affect approximately 25 million people in the United States per year. Migraine headaches can be quite debilitating, and can result in hospital visits, missed work and an inability to function or complete normal daily activities.

Symptoms of migraine headaches include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Blurred vision
  • Sensitivity to light and sound
  • Throbbing pain

For many people, there are symptoms prior to the onset of a headache such as seeing lights, an odd smell or other symptoms.

What Can Be Done About Headache & Migraine Pain?

Most people settle for rest and over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers, but there is more than can be done. Educating yourself about headaches and what is triggering them is a good first step. Making an appointment with your chiropractor is also a good idea.

How Can Your Philadelphia Chiropractor Help?

Chiropractic care has been helping headache sufferers for years. Adjustments, soft tissue massage, and other holistic treatments work together to help relieve symptoms, shorten the duration and reduce the frequency of both tension and migraine headaches. Talk to your Philadelphia chiropractor today and schedule a consultation. Call Oxford Rehabilitation Center at 215-725-2000 to make your appointment today.