Which Type of Headache or Migraine do I have?

Did you know there are many different types of Headache and Migraine is just one of them? It’s important to note that what works for one might not work for all, as headaches and migraines tend to work differently in the body. For one Headaches constrict blood vessels (vasoconstriction), whereas Migraine expands blood vessels (vasodilation). This means that medications are not always interchangeable and taking the wrong one can make symptoms worse.. To effectively manage headache or migraine we need to first understand the type of headache or migraine we have.

Headache or Migraine what’s The Difference?

A Migraine is a type of headache, however it has occurs differently in the body. A migraine will cause the opening of blood vessel, causing more blood to flow, whereas a headache will constrict and narrow blood vessels, reducing blood flow. There are around 150 different types of headaches, we will outline the most common ones below.

Main types of headache

TMJ related headache

This type of headache is a symptom of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder. Injury or displacement of the jaw bone can cause facial pain and headaches located around the temple areas. This is also the type of headache locality that may occur if someone has dental issues, such as tooth decay.

Migraine headache

Occurs in stages and lasts longer than other types of headache. Pain is accompanied by sensory symptoms and can be one sided or affecting both sides of the head.

Sinusitis Headache

Potentially this is an inflammatory response that occurs around the sinus’s and can be a result of illness or allergies. In this case pain is often around and under the eyes.

Hypertension

Headaches resulting from hypertension can occur when blood pressure is high. It can sit in the base of the skull where it attaches to the spine.

cluster headache

Are the most painful form of any headache including migraine. They affect more men than women and pain stems from the eye socket and surrounds the eye.

neck stiffness related headache

Related to posture problems of the neck or spine.

Tension headache

Tend to be those that go across the forehead.

Stress related headache

Around the back of the head.

other types of headache can be found here

Low Tyramine Diet here

If you would like help to manage migraine check out this article: ‘Managing Chronic Migraine’