Tension vs. Migraine

Everyone gets a headache at one point or another in their life right? Some can be more serious than others and it is important to know the difference so it can be properly dealt with and treated. The America Health Society has released reports that nearly 40% of the population is dealing with episodic headaches each year while 3% have chronic tension headaches. By estimation, 29.9 million Americans experience migraines but tension headaches are still more common than migraines at a frequency of 5 to 1.

 

Tension Headaches: Tension headaches typically result in a steady ache and tightness located in the neck usually at the base of the skull, this can irritate the upper cervical nerve roots resulting in beaming pain and/or numbness of the head. Sometimes the pain can reach the eyes but most times stops at the top of the head. Causes can be stress, muscle strain or anxiety.

 

Migraine Headaches: Migraines are usually much more intense and sometimes debilitating. Migraines often remain on one side of the head and can induce vomiting and nausea. Other symptoms include a bright flashing light, ringing in the ears, a visual floater and more. For migraines there is often a family history which indicates genetics can play a role in migraines.

 

Some common causes for a headache may include lack of sleep, stress and can result from a recent injury that is most times accompanied with a concussion. Certain things can also trigger a migraine like caffeine, diet, dehydration, depression, excessive exercise, menstruation, certain medications, alcohol, odors, posture, etc.

 

Chiropractic care can be highly effective to help treat both types of headaches especially if you’ve been involved in a car accident and/or sports injury. Spinal manipulation, deep tissue release techniques, and nutritional counseling are some amazing things that are utilized in chiropractic work. Patients in most cases will also be advised to use some self-management strategies at home to complete their treatment plan.

 

Content Courtesy of Chiro-Trust.org. All Rights Reserved.

 

Dr. Augustine of Augustine Chiropractic in Wesley Chapel, FL, has over 31 years of experience treating patients for their neck pain and their ailments through personalized chiropractic care treatments. The locally owned and operated chiropractic clinic offers both in-office treatments and at-home therapy regiments to help people recover and heal from auto injuries and other conditions. The staff is dedicated to providing alternative and therapeutic solutions for better overall health. Give them a call today at (813) 994-6008 to schedule an appointment and visit their website to learn more about their services!