Deepika, a 35-year-old software professional, often experienced severe head pain. Initially, she dismissed them as regular headaches, assuming they were due to long hours at the computer, work pressure, or dehydration. However, over time, the intensity and frequency of her pain increased. Nausea became a recurring occurrence. She developed acute sensitivity to light and sound. Soon, these symptoms began to interfere with her daily activities and quality of life. On a friend’s insistence, she met her Physician who referred her further to a Neurologist. On studying her history and running some tests, Deepika was diagnosed with Migraine.

Headaches and Migraines are common ailments that affect millions worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), headaches rank among the most common disorders of the nervous system. Almost 50% of all adults complain of headache in any given year. On the other hand, Migraine, a specific type of headache, impacts about 12% of the global population. It is particularly more prevalent in women.

The Neurology of Headaches & Migraines
Headaches can stem from various causes: tension, sinus issues, poor eyesight, exposure to loud sound for. a prolonged time, or other underlying health problems. The most common however, is Tension headache. It is mostly caused by stress, eye strain or muscle strain. It typically presents in the form of a constant, dull ache on both sides of the head. Cluster headaches occur on one side of the head, can be severely painful, and occur in cycles of time periods. Sinus headaches are those that co-occur with a cold, fever, or cough.

Manifesting as recurrent, severe headaches, Migraine attacks arise primarily from neurological disorders. They are linked to abnormal brain activity temporarily affecting nerve signals, chemicals, and blood vessels in the brain. The main triggers of Migraine are genetics and environmental factors. Anxiety, lack of sleep, bad eating routine, altitude changes, overuse of caffeine or alcohol – can also cause Migraines. Migraine episodes are typically classified as with and without aura i.e. sensations experienced by an individual just before the onset of a Migraine attack, for roughly 10 to 30 mins. Hormonal changes during periods can cause a Menstrual Migraine in women.

Symptoms: Headache vs. Migraine
Headaches:

• Dull, aching pain
• Pressure or tightness across the forehead, at the temples or at the back of the head and neck
• Mild to moderate intensity
• May lst from 5 minutes to 4 hours, typically
• Usually not accompanied by other symptoms

Migraines:

• Intense, throbbing pain, often on one side of the head, behind one or both eyes, in the neck
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light, sound, and sometimes smell
• Visual disturbances (auras), such as flashes of light, lines or blind spots, diminished mental alertness, tingling or numbness in the hands and face
• Pain that worsens with physical activity

Diagnosis: Precise identification is crucial for relief
Diagnosing headaches and migraines typically involves a detailed medical history and a physical examination. Neurologists delve deep into the frequency, duration, and characteristics of the pain, as also any accompanying symptoms. Maintaining a headache diary can help track patterns and potential triggers.

In some cases, additional tests such as MRI or CT scans may be recommended to rule out other serious conditions that could be causing the headaches, such as tumours or aneurysms.

Remedies, Solutions, Treatment Options
Effective management of headaches and migraines calls for a multi-faceted approach:

For Headaches:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Stress management techniques (relaxation exercises, yoga, meditation)
• Adequate hydration
• Balanced and healthy diet
• Regular physical activity

For Migraines:

• Prescription medications, including triptans and preventive drugs
• Identifying and avoiding triggers (certain foods, stress, lack of sleep)
• Lifestyle modifications (regular sleep schedule, balanced and timely meals, hydrating often)
• Alternative therapies (acupuncture, biofeedback)
• Neuromodulation devices that deliver electrical or magnetic pulses to the brain

While Headaches and Migraines share similarities, understanding the differences is vital for effective management. Proper diagnosis and treatment can significantly alleviate symptoms and enhance daily living.

At BBR Hospitals in Hyderabad, the Neurology Department is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients suffering from Headaches and Migraines. The team of experienced neurologists employs a patient-centric approach, combining state-of-the-art diagnostic tools with personalised treatment plans. From acute pain management to long-term

preventive strategies, BBR Hospitals offers a wide range of services to improve the quality of life for those affected by these debilitating conditions.

If you or a loved one is struggling with chronic headaches or migraines, seek expert medical advice at once. Delay can be debilitating in the long-run.