How do you distinguish migraine from tension headache?

Migraine and tension headaches are the two most common types of headaches, but they differ significantly in pain characteristics, location and accompanying symptoms. Migraine usually causes throbbing pain on one side of the head with sensitivity to light and sound, while tension headaches cause pressing pain around the entire head, without these additional symptoms.

What are the main differences between migraine and tension headaches?

Migraine and tension headaches are distinguished by different pain patterns, locations and accompanying complaints. Migraine usually causes throbbing, pounding pain on one side of the head, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. The pain is usually moderate to severe and worsens with movement.

Tension headaches, on the other hand, cause a pressing, constricting pain that encompasses the entire head, as if there is a tight band around your head. This pain is usually mild to moderate and is not accompanied by nausea or light and sound sensitivity. Movement usually does not make tension headaches worse.

The duration also differs significantly. Migraine attacks usually last 4 to 72 hours without treatment, while tension headaches can persist for several hours to several days. Migraine often occurs in attacks, while tension headaches can be more constant.

How do you recognise the specific symptoms of migraine?

Migraine is characterised by throbbing headache that usually begins on one side of the head, although both sides can be affected. The pain is often so severe that normal daily activities become impossible. Many people experience nausea and vomiting during a migraine attack.

About 20% of people with migraine experience an aura before the headache begins. This aura can manifest as visual disturbances, such as flickering lights, zigzag lines, blind spots or tingling in the hands and face. The aura usually lasts 20 to 60 minutes.

There are various migraine triggers that can provoke attacks:

• Hormonal changes, especially in women
• Certain foods, such as aged cheeses, chocolate or alcohol
• Stress and emotional tension
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Bright light, strong odours or loud sounds
• Weather changes

Useful tips for recognising migraine: pay attention to patterns in your headaches, keep a headache diary and observe what type of migraine you have, as there are different variants.

What characteristics does tension headache have and how does it develop?

Tension headaches cause a constant, pressing pain that is often described as a tight band or helmet around the head. The pain is usually bilateral, meaning both sides of the head are affected. The intensity is usually mild to moderate and disrupts daily activities less than migraine.

This form of headache often develops from muscle tension in the neck, shoulders and scalp. Stress is an important cause, as is poor posture, especially during prolonged computer work. Other common triggers are:

• Emotional stress and anxiety
• Poor posture and neck tension
• Fatigue and lack of sleep
• Excessive use of painkillers
• Dehydration
• Hunger or irregular meals

Tension headaches can occur episodically (less than 15 days per month) or become chronic (more than 15 days per month for three months). The chronic form often requires professional treatment.

When should you see a healthcare provider for headache complaints?

Seek immediate medical help for sudden, very severe headache that feels different from usual, especially if accompanied by fever, stiff neck, confusion, double vision or loss of consciousness. These symptoms may indicate serious conditions that require immediate treatment.

Other warning signs that require medical attention:

• Headache that gradually worsens over days or weeks
• Headache after a head injury
• Headache with fever, rash or stiff neck
• Headache with confusion, memory problems or personality changes
• Headache in people over 50 who have not previously had headaches

Schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider if your headache patterns change, become more frequent or if you need painkillers more than twice a week. Also, if headaches affect your daily life or if you develop new symptoms, professional guidance is recommended.

How Ruggensteun helps with migraine and headache complaints

We offer a holistic approach to migraine and headache treatment by addressing the underlying causes rather than just fighting the symptoms. Our specialised chiropractors focus on restoring the natural alignment of the spine and optimising nerve communication between brain and body.

Our treatment options include:

• Advanced chiropractic techniques for neck tension and headaches
• CFR (Cranial Facial Release) for headaches related to cranial and facial tension
• Dry needling for muscle tension in neck and shoulders
• Specialised Y-strap treatments for spinal decompression
• Advice on posture, ergonomics and lifestyle adjustments

You can contact us directly, without referral from your GP. For more information about our migraine treatments or to schedule an appointment, visit our homepage or contact us directly through our contact page. We offer quick availability for urgent cases and free parking at both locations in Eindhoven and Valkenswaard.