Headache & Migraine Specialist

How are migraine and other kinds of headaches different?

The main difference between migraine and headache is the cause. Headaches are the result of muscle contractions in your head and neck, while migraines are a neurological disorder.

Migraines cause distinct neurological symptoms beyond head pain. Both migraine and headaches can be frustrating and intensely painful, so your North Texas Orthopaedic & Spine doctor will help you with customized relief regardless of which headache type you have.

What are the symptoms of migraines?

In the prodrome phase (before your migraine starts), you may experience symptoms like confusion, inability to concentrate, uncomfortable head stiffness, and exhaustion. After your migraine starts, typical symptoms include:

• Severe pounding or throbbing pain on one or both sides of your head
• Eye pain
• Blurry vision
• Light, scent, and sound sensitivity
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness

Symptoms may be so severe that you're unable to function normally at all, possibly for days at a time.

What are the symptoms of non-migraine headaches?

There are a few main types of non-migraine headaches, with the most common being tension headaches. Tension headaches typically cause a dull ache across your head. You may also have a feeling of pressure around your head, sore neck, or tender feeling scalp with a tension headache. Tension headaches tend to last for a few hours or less.

Cluster headaches are quite rare. They occur daily, often around the same time, and cause excruciating head pain. Usually, cluster headaches are on just one side of your head. You may have long periods of remission only to have them start again.

How are headaches and migraines treated?

It depends on what kind of headache you’re dealing with, as well as how your symptoms are affecting your day-to-day life. For many patients, preventive medication can greatly reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines and headaches. Some patients need as-needed medicine as well.

Trigger point injections, typically of local anesthetics, may be a great solution for chronic migraine or headache pain. Your doctor injects the medication into specific muscles in your head and neck, which interferes with pain receptors and prevents pain signals from moving to your brain. Injections can last for days, weeks, or longer.

Your North Texas Orthopaedic & Spine doctor will discuss all your options with you and then help you choose the treatment that you’re comfortable with. Book your appointment using the online tool or by calling the office now.