Migraine vs. Headache

General
, , , ,
1

While both migraines and headaches cause pain in the head, they are not the same.

Type of Pain

  • Headache (Tension-type):
    • Dull, aching pain
    • Feels like a tight band around the head
    • Usually mild to moderate
    • Typically on both sides
  • Migraine:
    • Throbbing or pulsating pain
    • Usually one-sided
    • Moderate to severe intensity
    • Can interfere with daily activities

Duration

  • Headache:
    • Lasts 30 minutes to a few hours
  • Migraine:
    • Can last from 4 hours to 3 days if untreated

Associated Symptoms

  • Headache:
    • Usually no other major symptoms
  • Migraine:
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Sensitivity to light, sound, or smell**
    • May include an aura (visual disturbances like flashing lights or zigzag lines) before the pain starts.

Triggers

  • Headache:
    • Stress
    • Fatigue
    • Poor posture
    • Eye strain
  • Migraine:
    • Hormonal changes
    • Certain foods (e.g. cheese, chocolate)
    • Skipping meals
    • Bright lights or loud sounds
    • Weather changes
    • Stress (or relief from stress)

Treatment

  • Headache:
    • OTC painkillers (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
    • Rest, hydration
  • Migraine:
    • Prescription meds (triptans, anti-nausea drugs)
    • Avoiding triggers
    • Preventive medications if frequent
    • Rest in a dark, quiet room.

Headache Annoying, but usually manageable without stopping work.
Migraine Often debilitating, forcing rest, and affecting productivity, mood, and quality of life.

IMG_6412
IMG_6412554×554 33.1 KB

Do you think screen time is contributing to your headaches or migraines?

6 Likes
2

Yes , too much screentime can cause us headaches , sometime it may can lead to migranes , especially if we don’t take break

1 Like
3

yes, I have bee experiencing headaches from spending too much time in front of screens.

1 Like
4

Screen time can affect the body if individual having more screen time it can might increase stress and headache. By reducing screen time we can manage the stress and headache.

1 Like
5

I have been experiencing headache but after reading this topic I am so confused that I have headache or migraine as pain start from the back of the neck.

2 Likes
6

A regular headache usually causes a dull, steady pain that’s mild to moderate and felt on both sides or at the back of the head or neck, without other symptoms. In contrast a migraine often presents as a throbbing or pulsating pain, usually on one side, and can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound.

1 Like
7

Yes screen time can affect sometimes but not having lunch on correct time or walking in hot sunlight also affect

1 Like
8

Yes, absolutely. I feel like screen time has become one of the biggest hidden triggers, especially with long hours on phones or laptops. I used to think it was just normal tiredness, but over time I noticed the headaches getting worse and even turning into migraines. Bright lights, constant scrolling, and lack of breaks really take a toll. Now I try to follow the 20-20-20 rule and reduce brightness, and it’s helping a bit. It’s something we often ignore but makes a big difference!

1 Like
9

This is a clear and helpful comparison. While both involve head pain, migraines are more intense, longer lasting, and come with additional symptoms like nausea and light sensitivity. Recognizing the difference is key to proper treatment and prevention.

2 Likes
10

Yes by spending too much time on the screen will cause headache and migraine.

2 Likes
11

Yes screentime does effect the headache, as I have experienced it

1 Like