Migraine vs. Tension Type Headache. 2023

Migraine and Tension Type Headache are both primary headaches which have a normal physical exam, normal neurological and general medical tests, and which make up 99% of all headaches.  Patients may have both Migraine and Tension Type Headache where migraine is usually the worst problem. 

Migraine

Description:
Recurrent headache disorder manifesting in attacks lasting 4-72 hours. Typical characteristics of the headache are unilateral location, pulsating quality, moderate or severe intensity, aggravation by routine physical activity and association with nausea and/or photophobia and phonophobia.

Diagnostic criteria:
A. At least five attacks fulfilling criteria B-D
B. Headache attacks lasting 4-72 hr (untreated or unsuccessfully treated)
C. Headache has at least two of the following four characteristics:

1. unilateral location
2. pulsating quality
3. moderate or severe pain intensity
4. aggravation by or causing avoidance of routine physical activity (e.g, walking or climbing stairs)

D. During headache at least one of the following:

1. nausea and/or vomiting
2. photophobia and phonophobia

E. Not better accounted for by another ICHD-3 diagnosis.

Tension Type Headache

  • Usually generalized

  • Non-throbbing, feels like pressure or tight

  • Not associated with nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light or sound

  • Usually mild to moderate (1-5)

  • Patients stay in their life with these headaches, don't leave work or miss social activities

    This is an article by Britt Talley Daniel MD, retired member of the American Academy of Neurology, Migraine textbook author, Podcaster, YouTube video producer, and Blogger.

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Although this site provides information about various medical conditions, the reader is directed to his own treating physician for medical treatment.

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All the best.

Britt Talley Daniel MD

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