Headaches & Migraines – What’s the Difference?

/ Carter Chiropractic & Dubbo Acupuncture/

MIGRAINES:  

Usually occur after an exposure to a trigger. Migraines can occur with or without an aura, and are usually pulsating in nature. An aura includes reversible disturbances, usually either visual, sensory or in some cases speech disturbances. Migraines without an aura usually last 4 to 72 hours causing an avoidance of normal routine activities. Often migraines can be accompanied by other symptoms including blurred vision, appetite loss, blind spots, nausea, hypersensitivity, dizziness, fatigue or numbness. 

Tips to help prevent Migraines:

- Keep sleep schedule as regular as possible
- Avoid skipping meals & food triggers
- Manage stress through training & time management

CLUSTER HEADACHES:

Are experienced in cycles of headaches and then headache free periods. They are often confused with migraines because of the severe pain that is experienced with them. Cluster headaches tend to occur more at night than other headaches with the cycles occurring over a few weeks or months, some occasionally lasting years. Some behaviours affecting blood flow such as exercise, drinking alcohol or smoking, however the cluster headaches themselves aren’t triggered like migraines are. 

Tips to help prevent Cluster Headaches:
- Avoid Alcohol & Smoking

CERVICOGENIC HEADACHES: 

These are distinct headaches in that they are caused by an abnormality or structures in the neck. The headache is usually on one side of the head only and tends to last between 3 hours to a week, recurring at intervals. People may suffer migraine-like associated symptoms of nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light. Pain is often localised to the neck and behind the skull and may move to other areas around the head, including the eyes. Pain is often made worse with specific head and neck movements. 

Tips to help prevent Cervicogenic/Tension-Type Headaches:

- Correct postural imbalances, in particular through the upper back and neck. 
- Proper ergonomics in workstation environments
- Self stretching and exercise techniques

SINUS HEADACHES: 

Often felt in the cheekbones, forehead or over the nose and often associated with a fever, stuffy nose or cough. 

Tips to help prevent Sinus Headaches:
- Decongestants

For more information please book an appointment with one of our chiropractors on 6884 1655