How can you tell the difference between tension headaches and episodic migraines?
The key differences lie in pain characteristics, frequency, and accompanying symptoms.
Pain characteristics
* Tension headaches cause moderate, steady aching pain on both sides of your head and forehead, like a tight band around your head
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How can you tell the difference between tension headaches and episodic migraines?
The key differences lie in pain characteristics, frequency, and accompanying symptoms.
Pain characteristics:
* Tension headaches cause moderate, steady aching pain on both sides of your head and forehead, like a tight band around your head
* Episodic migraines typically cause moderate to severe throbbing or pulsing pain, usually on one side of your head
Accompanying symptoms:
* Tension headaches generally don't cause nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light and sound
* Episodic migraines often come with nausea, vomiting, and heightened sensitivity to light, sound, and motion. You might also experience visual distortions or aura
Frequency:
* Episodic migraines occur 14 or fewer headache days per month
* Tension headaches are the most common type of headache and typically don't interrupt daily life, though they can sometimes trigger migraine attacks
Onset:
* Migraines tend to come on gradually
* Tension headaches often develop in response to stress, jaw clenching, or eye strain
It's worth noting that some people experience both types of headaches. If you're having severe or frequent headaches, talking with your doctor can help determine what you're experiencing and find the right treatment approach.
April 22
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