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How to Identify the Difference Between Migraine and Normal Headache
- •A normal headache causes mild pain and pressure mainly in the forehead, temples, and upper neck area, lasting from five minutes to four hours.
- •Common headaches are often triggered by stress, anxiety, muscle tension, eye strain, and acidity as per the World Health Organization.
- •Migraine pain is much more intense, usually occurring on only one side of the head, and can last from three hours to three days.
- •Additional migraine symptoms include nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, vision problems, and neck pain.
Key Questions Answered
A normal headache often stems from stress, anxiety, muscle tension, eye strain, and acidity. It typically causes mild to moderate pain and pressure in the forehead, temples, and upper neck area, lasting anywhere from five minutes to four hours.
Migraine pain is more intense than a regular headache, often occurring on one side of the head with severe intensity that can last from three hours to three days. Associated symptoms include neck and shoulder pain, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and vision problems. Migraines are classified as either with or without aura, where an aura involves physical signs like mental confusion, flashing lights, or numbness appearing ten to thirty minutes before an attack.
If you experience frequent headaches or severe migraines that hinder daily activities and cause intense pain requiring immediate attention, you should consult a doctor.
