Migraines vs. Other Types of Headaches

 

The list below describes the 3 most common types of headaches.

1. Migraines

The primary symptoms that accompany a migraine headache are:

  • throbbing or hammering pain that’s usually localized to one side of the head;
  • lengthy duration (from a few hours to up to 3 days);
  • pain that’s moderate to severe;

These can sometimes be accompanied by an aura, nausea and vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. For more information about migraines see the article “What Is a Migraine?”

2. Cluster Headaches

The common symptoms associated with cluster headaches are:

  • pain that occurs behind one eye. The eye may sometimes tear up or get red. Sinus drainage or congestion may occur on the same side of the face;
  • headaches that come in “clusters”, i.e., they occur several times over the course of several days, weeks, or months. They can occur as frequently as 5-6 times each day.
  • headaches that suddenly stop for months, even years but eventually come back;
  • headaches that are short-lived, lasting from 30 minutes to 2-3 hours.

Cluster headaches are sometimes accompanied by a droopy eyelid on the same side of the face where the pain is occurring. Some people also sweat on the affected side. Nausea and vomiting do not usually accompany cluster headaches.

3. Tension Headaches

The main symptoms of tension headaches are:

  • mild to moderate dull aching pain on both sides of the head or the forehead area;
  • a tightness in the neck and the back of the head;

Nausea and vomiting do not accompany tension headaches, nor do auras.

It’s important to distinguish between the different headache types. This helps your doctor diagnose your symptoms and provide the best treatment.

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One Response to “Migraines vs. Other Types of Headaches”

  1. Less Common Types of Headaches | Migraine Symptoms Guide on July 26th, 2008 10:29 am

    [...] rare headache type typically occurs in women and has symptoms similar to a cluster headache (see Migraines vs. Other Types of Headaches).  They usually only last 1-2 minutes but can occur multiple times during a 24-hour [...]

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