Headache

What is the difference between headaches and migraines?

Despite affecting around 12% of Americans, migraines are widely misunderstood. Many people assume that a severe headache is a migraine. However, migraines are a collection of painful neurological symptoms, including a severe headache. Other migraine symptoms include:

• Sensitivity to sound, light, and odor
• Nausea and vomiting
• Seeing halos or auras around lights
• Vision loss
• Tingling or pins-and-needles feelings in an arm or leg

Migraines can also cause prodrome, including warning symptoms such as mood changes, food cravings, and constipation. 

What causes headaches and migraines?

Many factors contribute to headaches and migraines. Headaches can either be the primary issue or a symptom of another illness. 

For example, you could have a cluster or tension headache caused by abnormalities in the blood vessels or nerves in your head. Alternatively, your headache could be due to other issues like dehydration, the flu, or a concussion. 

Medical researchers don’t fully understand the causes of migraines. They have identified a link between migraines and the hormonal fluctuations that women experience during their menstrual cycles, although this isn’t the only factor, as not all women get migraines. 

Other potential causes of migraines include bright or flashing lights, stress, food additives, and certain medications. 

When should I talk to a doctor about my headaches and migraines?

You might be tempted to brush off a headache; after all, everyone gets headaches. However, you should talk to your provider at Michigan Advanced Pain & Spine if your headaches are so severe that you can’t go to work or school or if you have more than three headaches a week. 

Migraines also require medical attention to either prevent or eliminate your attacks. Make an appointment if you have any migraine symptoms.

How do you treat headaches and migraines?

Your Michigan Advanced Pain & Spine provider begins with a comprehensive consultation to evaluate your headaches or migraines and identify their root cause. Then, he creates a customized treatment plan to address your specific needs. Your program could include:

• Medication
• Peripheral nerve blocks
• IV infusion therapy
• Occipital nerve blocks
• Botox®
• Ganglion nerve blocks
• Trigger point injections

Your provider might also help you implement lifestyle changes, such as adjusting your diet to avoid food or additive triggers, to lower your risk of headaches or migraines. 

If you have severe or frequent headaches or migraines, call Michigan Advanced Pain & Spine or request an appointment online today.