Tension Headaches And Migraine Headaches (What Is The Difference?)
From Aetna Pharmacy Management's Migraine Management Program
Headaches generally fall into two categories: tension headaches and migraine headaches. The diagnosis of your headaches will be based on your medical history and a
physical exam. In some cases, a neurological exam, head-imaging study or other tests may be needed.
Tension headaches can feel like a band of pain around the head. The pain can spread to the neck and back. The pain is caused by the contraction of the muscles in the neck and face, and can become worse due to
dental problems, bad posture and eye strain.
Migraine headaches feel like an intense and throbbing pain. They often begin on one side of the head and then spread throughout the face and head.
TENSION HEADACHE
MIGRAINE HEADACHE
Symptom Characterizations
A sense of a band of pain around the head. Pain can spread to the neck and back, and is caused by contraction of neck and facial muscles
Characterized by an intense and throbbing pain. Often begins on one side of the head and spreads throughout the face and head
Duration
A few hours
4 to 72 hours
Location
Over entire head
Starts out one-sided or localized. Can then spread to whole head
Intensity
Usually mild to moderate
Usually moderate to severe
Nature of Pain
Dull
Pounding, throbbing, squeezing
Other Symptoms
Irritation
Nausea, a sensitivity to noise, light or smells, vomiting, runny
nose, watery eyes, vision changes sometimes referred to as "aura." Some migraine headaches may even be mild but have other
symptoms, such as limited vision
