How to Tell a Migraine Apart From a Regular Headache

Headaches are common, but not all headaches are the same. Many patients visiting Reviving Rituals Clinic ask:

“How do I know if it’s just a headache or a migraine?”

Understanding the difference between a migraine and a regular headache can help you get the right treatment faster and prevent unnecessary discomfort.

What is a Regular Headache?

A regular headache (tension-type headache) often feels like:

• A dull, steady ache on both sides of the head.

• A feeling of tightness or pressure around the forehead or back of the head.

• Mild to moderate pain.

• No nausea or vomiting.

• Typically not worsened by light or sound.

Regular headaches often occur due to:

✅ Stress

✅ Dehydration

✅ Poor posture

✅ Lack of sleep

They usually resolve with hydration, rest, or mild pain relievers.

What is a Migraine?

A migraine is a neurological condition that causes:

• Moderate to severe throbbing or pulsating pain, often on one side of the head.

• Pain that worsens with physical activity.

• Sensitivity to light, sound, and sometimes smells.

• Nausea and sometimes vomiting.

• Visual disturbances (flashing lights, blind spots) in some cases (called aura).

Migraines can last 4 to 72 hours if untreated and may require specific management.

Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Regular Headache	Migraine
Location	Both sides	Usually one side
Pain Type	Dull, pressure	Throbbing, pulsating
Severity	Mild to moderate	Moderate to severe
Nausea	Rare	Common
Sensitivity to light/sound	Rare	Common
Worsens with activity	No	Yes
Duration	Few hours	4–72 hours

Why It Matters

✅ Knowing the difference helps you seek appropriate treatment.

✅ Chronic migraines require lifestyle and dietary management for prevention.

✅ Ayurveda offers safe, sustainable support to reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines.

How Ayurveda Views Migraines

In Ayurveda, migraines are linked to Pitta and Vata imbalances, aggravated by stress, heat, and lifestyle factors. Ayurvedic management may include

🌿 Cooling herbs (Brahmi, Shatavari)

🌿 Nasya therapy (nasal oil application)

🌿 Daily routines (Dinacharya) for stress management

🌿 Dietary adjustments to avoid migraine triggers

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical help if:

⚠️ Your headache is severe and sudden.

⚠️ You have vision changes, confusion, or weakness.

⚠️ Headaches are frequent and impact daily life.

⚠️ You have headaches with fever or neck stiffness.

Final Thoughts

At Reviving Rituals Clinic, we believe in integrative care, combining modern medicine and Ayurveda to manage migraines holistically, reduce triggers, and improve your quality of life naturally.

✨ If you’re unsure whether your headaches are migraines, book a consultation with us. We will help you identify the cause and create a personalized treatment plan to support your wellness journey.

Ready to take control of your headaches

📩 DM us on Instagram @revivingrituals

🌿 Book your Ayurveda consultation today.

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