Migraine or Cluster Headache Quiz
According to the National Institutes of Health, about 12% of the U.S. population suffer from migraines. The problem is that most people confuse this severe disorder with a cluster headache or other forms of headaches. Understanding the difference between the two conditions is critical to properly discerning what a patient suffers from and what treatment plan they need.
Self-diagnosing such conditions can have negative repercussions. The best way to determine the proper course of treatment is through a visit to the doctor’s office or a Cibolo, TX ER.
Migraines
Migraines present themselves as a throbbing pain on the side of the head, often causing people to be sensitive to light and sound. In some cases, patients may also experience nausea and vomiting.
Common triggers:
- Stress
- Unhealthy sleeping routine
- Strong light exposure
- Hormonal changes (for women)
- Anxiety
Cluster Headaches
Similar to a migraine, a cluster headache represents a strong pain on the side of the head. It may also cause a droopy eyelid, stuffy nose, and even tearing of the eyes. It remains unclear what exactly causes cluster headaches, but they seem to be connected to the body’s histamine or serotonin levels. They also tend to run in the family.
Possible triggers:
● Frequent alcohol consumption
● Cigarette smoking
● High altitudes
● Cocaine
● Certain drugs
● Heat
● Bright light
Distinguishing Between the Two
The questions below can help determine which of the two conditions a patient is suffering from:
- Is the pain generated around the eye?
- Does the pain appear seasonally, and then disappear for a long time?
- Does the pain wake the patient in the middle of the night?
- Does the patient present neck pain, lightheadedness, or extreme sensitivity?
- Is the pain causing blurred vision?
- Is the pain throbbing or pulsing?
The first three questions describe the symptoms of patients experiencing cluster headaches, while the latter three belong to migraine symptoms.
It’s important to point out that each patient might experience these conditions differently, hence the high possibility of a wrong diagnosis. For a proper assessment, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor or stop by our nearest Physicians Premier facility for a professional medical opinion.
Sources:
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000786.htm
https://medlineplus.gov/migraine.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cluster-headache/symptoms-causes/syc-20352080?p=1
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/migraine-headache/symptoms-causes/syc-20360201
