Aside from feeling frustration, headaches that happen frequently can make you wonder whether it is “just stress” that you are dealing with or a condition that should already be checked by a specialist. If you are considering booking a consultation with a neuro doctor in Singapore, a great starting point would be to understand how tension-type headaches differ from a migraine. You can also learn more about different neurological conditions and care at https://chouneurosurgery.com/condition/chronic-headaches/.
Distinguishing between a chronic migraine and a tension headache is something that many patients in Singapore try to self diagnose, which is definitely not recommended. While these two conditions may present similar symptoms, each requires distinct approaches when it comes to management and treatment.
In this article, we will navigate through the various factors that make migraine and tension headaches from each other and explore the available treatments in Singapore.
The Difference Between Migraine and Tension Headache
The symptoms of migraine and tension headache may overlap, but the pattern of the pain that you feel can be useful information for a neuro doctor in Singapore to identify the condition that you have. For a more accurate diagnosis, your complete health history is usually evaluated.
Migraine Signs: Disabling, throbbing, and often times one-sided
Feeling a pulsating or throbbing pain that is medium to high intensity and affects a single side of the head points to a migraine. These signs may worsen when you do physical activities. Other symptoms include sensitivity to light, smells, or sounds and nausea or vomiting. This wearying condition can last anywhere from a few hours to as long as three days.
One very unique symptom of migraine is experiencing an aura. An aura can present itself as dizziness or having challenges with speaking temporarily, lights that flash or appear as zigzags, numbing or tingling, as well as visual disturbances. This occurrence may happen before or during your migraine, develop gradually, and typically lasts not longer beyond an hour.
Migraines are triggered by several factors, such as:
- Certain foods or drinks
- Dehydration
- Hormonal change
- Lack of sleep
- Skipping meals
- Stress
There is no textbook pattern for migraines. You may or may not have aura during its onset, while some people may experience pain on both sides of their head. Hence, it is better to consult with a neuro doctor in Singapore instead of self-diagnosing based on the location of your pain and other symptoms as this can be misleading.
Tension-type Headache Signs: More pressure instead of pounding
If your headache feels dull, tight or pressing instead of throbbing, then these are the common signs of tension-type headache. These symptoms can be likened to feeling a tightening band around the back of your head, forehead, or temples. It is usually felt on both sides and may be with tightness in your neck or shoulder.
A distinguishable trait of tension-type headache is it goes without you suffering from nausea or vomiting. You also will not feel extra sensitive to loud noise or bright lights.
The factors that can contribute to tension-type headache are:
- Eye strain
- Fatigue
- Poor posture
- Prolonged screen use
Classifying a “Chronic” Headache
Knowing whether your headache poses as a chronic condition depends on its frequency. A migraine is considered chronic if you experience it for at at least half the month, spanning more than three months, with obvious symptoms present on a significant number of days when they happen. Do note that other headache disorders or overuse of certain medications can also cause frequent headaches.
Specialists recommend seeing a neuro doctor in Singapore when your headaches persist for more than 15 days in a month or when you need to relieve your condition with pain medication frequently over an extended period of time.
If your personal routines, family schedule, and work are already affected by chronic headaches, it is practical to consult with a medical expert to find ways to improve your condition. You do not have to wait until you can no longer bear the painful signs before seeking medical attention.
Alarming Signs: When should you seek emergency care from a neuro doctor in Singapore?
Not all headaches are considered a dangerous condition. However, it is important to be aware of the symptoms that you feel as many of these need prompt evaluation, especially if they seem to suggest a more advanced or severe problem.
Urgently obtain medical advice instead of waiting for a clinic appointment when:
- You experience loss of consciousness or significant problems with gaining balance.
- You have a severe headache coupled with a high fever, rash, or stiff neck.
- You have a serious headache following an injury in the head.
- You feel a sudden “thunderclap” or explosive headache, particularly if you feel like this is the worst headache that you’ve had.
- You feel confused, weak, numb, or have challenges with speaking.
- Your headache worsens quickly and becomes even more severe.
- Your severe headache is accompanied by major changes in your vision or vomiting.
You should also consider getting a medical evaluation when:
- The characteristics of your headache change.
- Your headaches are new and increasingly frequent.
- Your headache wakes you from your sleep.
- Your headache feels a lot worse when you cough or exert effort.
- You suddenly experience them frequently upon passing the age of 50.
Treating Chronic Migraines in Singapore: What are your options?
If your recurring migraines are not relieved by over-the-counter painkillers or first-line preventive medications, you can ask a neuro doctor in Singapore for available advanced treatment approaches.
For instance, botulinum toxin (Botox) is one established preventive option used by specialists for unbearable chronic cases. Tertiary hospitals in Singapore also have access to calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) targeted therapies. These methods are particularly designed to prevent migraines.
Based on your unique circumstance and diagnosis, a neuro doctor in Singapore may also prescribe preventive medicines, acute treatments specific for migraines, management of medication overuse and other interventions.
Breaking Free from Chronic Head Pain
A great practice to observe if you have recurring migraine is to take note of your symptoms. If possible, keep a list of it as this can come in handy when you decide to consult with a neuro doctor in Singapore.
There are distinct differences between types of chronic headaches. Experiencing a band-like pressure that is dull and studying on both sides of your head may point to a tension-type headache, while pain that is throbbing and is only felt on one side along with other symptoms like sensitivity to light or sound, nausea or vomiting is more likely a migraine.
A clear diagnosis and a well-structured treatment plan can help you break free from years of chronic head pain. Do not wait for your symptoms to get worse. Book an appointment with a neuro doctor in Singapore today.
Chou Neuroscience Clinic – Dr Chou Ning
1 Farrer Park Station Road
#08-06 Connexion
Singapore 217562
6 Napier Road #08-08
Gleneagles Medical Centre
Singapore 258499
https://chouneurosurgery.com/
Phone: +65 6694 7942
