Is it a migraine or a headache? These are the key differences
Why you shouldn’t dismiss a migraine as a ‘bad headache’
- Migraines are a complex neurological condition resulting from abnormal brain activity, distinct from a typical headache, and require specific treatment and management.
- Unlike temporary headaches, migraine attacks involve moderate to severe, throbbing head pain, often on one side, worsened by movement or light, and can last from four hours to three days.
- Migraines typically progress through distinct phases: premonitory (warning signs), aura (visual or sensory disturbances, experienced by up to a third), headache, and postdrome (a 'hangover' feeling).
- The condition profoundly impacts various aspects of life, including relationships, careers, and mental health, with research indicating significant negative effects on sufferers.
- It is important to consult a GP if you suspect you have migraines or if symptoms are severe, frequent, or prolonged, as early diagnosis and management are crucial.