A throbbing headache can often make you wonder if you are having a migraine, while reaching for a painkiller may seem like the easiest way to deal with the discomfort. However, not every headache is a migraine, and understanding the type of headache you are experiencing can help you recognise the symptoms, manage them more effectively and know when to seek medical attention.
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Dr Rahul Chawla, a neurologist trained at AIIMS, New Delhi, and consultant neurologist at ISIC Multispeciality Hospital, Vasant Kunj, as well as the founder of HealthPil.com, is breaking down how to distinguish between a regular headache and a migraine, including the key symptoms to look out for. In an Instagram video shared on August 13, the neurologist explains, “Not every headache is a migraine. Migraine has some specific features that help distinguish it from other types of headaches.”
When do you label a headache as migraine?
According to Dr Chawla, every time your head starts aching, you may assume it is a migraine attack, but that is not always the case. Not every headache is caused by migraine, and recognising the symptoms can help you distinguish between different types of headaches and take the necessary measures. The neurologist discusses how the position and duration of the pain, along with other accompanying symptoms, can help identify a migraine.
He explains, “Migraine has a strict definition. Usually, it is a unilateral headache, meaning it occurs on one side, although it can also happen on both sides. The pain typically lasts from at least three hours up to three days. This pain is accompanied by nausea and vomiting. There is also irritation from light and sound, to the point where the patient feels the need to go and sit in a dark room. Additionally, the pain is progressive and keeps increasing rather than remaining static.”
Symptoms of migraine aura
A migraine aura is a group of sensory, visual or speech disturbances that can occur before or during a headache. These symptoms typically develop gradually over about five minutes and usually last for less than 60 minutes. Dr Chawla explains the specific signs that may indicate you are experiencing an aura and that a migraine attack may be underway.
The neurologist explains, “Some patients may experience an aura, which involves seeing flickering lights, zigzag lines, or patterns, or even experiencing an abnormal smell before the pain starts. These are all specific traits of migraine. If these symptoms are present and the patient experiences these types of spells multiple times, it is labeled as migraine.”
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.
Dr Rahul Chawla is a Consultant Neurologist in New Delhi with degrees including MBBS, MD (General Medicine) from VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital, and DM (Neurology) from AIIMS New Delhi. He specialises in stroke, epilepsy, and headaches, and practices at ISIC Multispeciality Hospital in Vasant Kunj.
