Maurer Chiropractic

Chiropractor in Laurel, Montana Dr. Phil Maurer

Text Size:+-
(406) 628-9322
309 1st Avenue Laurel, MT 59044
  • Home
  • About Chiropractic
    • Its History
    • Can It Help Me?
    • How Does It Work?
    • What is a Subluxation?
    • Phases of Degeneration
  • About the Doctor
  • About You
    • FAQs
    • Wellness Tips
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • Reviews
  • TRT

Blog

A Tension Headache or A Migraine? How to Tell the Difference

Posted on 09.13.17 |

tension headaches, migraine headaches and chiropracticHeadaches are a real pain (insert eye-roll here). Many individuals suffer from them, and there are a variety of causes, symptoms, and treatment options. For some, they are a rare occurrence, while others deal with them on a weekly, or even daily, basis. They can range from minor inconveniences to full-fledged life changing afflictions.

The first step in treating headaches is to understand the type of headache you are experiencing. Some people think they have a migraine, when in fact, they are suffering from a tension headache. While tension headaches are more common, it’s estimated by the Migraine Research Foundation that 1 in 4 U.S. Households include someone with a migraine.

Determining which headache being dealt with takes a bit of research. Individuals suffering from headaches need to ask themselves these questions to determine if they are having a migraine, or experiencing a tension headache.

When in life did the headaches begin? According to the Mayo Clinic, migraines begin in adolescence or early adulthood. In contrast, tension headaches can start at any time in a person’s life. If an adult just began suffering from headaches, they are most likely tension headaches.

Where does it hurt? Migraines typically occur on one side of the head. Tension headaches affect both sides of the head, and can produce a feeling of pressure at the forehead area. The location of the pain is a key indicator of the type of headache.

What kind of pain is it? If it is a dull pain, a feeling of pressure, or tenderness around the scalp, it’s most likely a tension headache. If, on the other hand, the pain is a throbbing or pulsing pain, it could be a migraine. Both headaches can offer up severe pain, just different types. 

Are there any other symptoms? Migraines typically come with symptoms beyond head pain. Nausea, light and sound sensitivity, seeing bright flashing or sparkling lights, pins and needle sensations down one or both arms, or dizziness are common. Individuals who don’t experience any of these symptoms are most likely dealing with a tension headache. 

Can you function? While painful and frustrating, many people with a tension headache can still perform their jobs, drive, read, and deal with daily life. A migraine is a different story. Lying in a dark, quiet room with a sleep mask on until the headache passes is how most people handle migraines. If the headache is life-disrupting, it could very well be a migraine. 

Do normal pain killers work? Tension headaches can often be relieved by over-the-counter pain medications. Migraines don’t budge with these treatments. Once a migraine is in full force, the sufferer generally must ride it out. If a headache reacts well to a couple of non-prescription pain killers, it’s most likely a tension headache.

The majority of individuals will unfortunately deal with a headache at one point in their lives. It’s important to note that tension headaches are much more common than migraines, but that doesn’t rule out the possibility of the headache being a migraine. The answers to the above questions combined together give insight as to the type of headache occurring, and how best to proactively handle the treatment. No matter the type of headache, if the pain is severe, or begins after a head injury, seek medical treatment immediately. 

This article is copyrighted by Blogging Chiros LLC for its Doctor of Chiropractic members and may not be copied or duplicated in any manner including printed or electronic media, regardless of whether for a fee or gratis without the prior written permission of Blogging Chiros, LLC.


For More Information

We would be happy to answer any questions you have about this article, general spinal health or your specific situation. To discuss your symptoms and concerns call (406) 628-9322.

DID YOU ENJOY THIS ARTICLE?

If so, get email updates for free! Just leave your email address in the field provided below and we'll handle the rest.

NEED TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT?

Then call Dr. Phillip Maurer at (406) 628-9322 today!

Maurer Chiropractic
113 East Main Street
Laurel, MT 59044

How We Are Different

Dr. Maurer is a unique Laurel chiropractor who specializes in difficult cases that have not responded to other care. All treatment plans are highly individualized based on your specific history, needs and goals.

Areas We Serve

We are located in Laurel and serve the communities that reside in zip codes 59044, 59101, 59102, 59108, 59041, and 59014. However, we see patients from a large radius around Billings, Yellowstone, and Clarks Fork Valley because of the unique, customized treatment options we offer.


Categories: Uncategorized

icon

Make an Appointment

icon

Download Our Forms

icon

Like Us on Facebook

icon

Visit Us

Join Our Mailing List!


Like Us on Facebook

Recent Posts

  • Why You Should Consider Chiropractic If You Suffer From Frozen Shoulder
  • How Chiropractic Helps Relieve Tension Headaches
  • What Is De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis & Can Chiropractic Help
  • How Chiropractic Can Help Alleviate the Pain of a Baker’s Cyst
  • What Is The Difference Between Anaerobic & Aerobic Exercise
  • Low Back & Leg Pain: How Chiropractic Helps Radiculopathy
  • Why Chiropractors Use X-rays As A Diagnostic Tool For Treatment
  • How Chiropractic Can Benefit Athletes Who Suffer From Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries

Copyright © · Maurer Chiropractic · 309 1st Avenue Laurel · Laurel, MT 59044

Healthcare Disclaimer | HIPAA Privacy Policy | Privacy Policy | Terms of Service

Chiropractic Website Design maintained by Chiropractic Marketing Websites