In this HealthyU segment, we find out the difference between a tension headache and migraine. And also what we can do to stop them from happening.

There are several types of headaches, but the most common are tension and migraine headaches.

1. TENSION HEADACHES: Most common in (80 percent of adults is this type) and seems to occur in women more than men.

You experience mild pain, still able to function, starts in the upper neck, band-like tightness pr pressure around the head, no other symptoms, they happened randomly, no set pattern, and treatment is with over-the-counter medications like Tylenol or Advil.

2. MIGRAINE HEADACHES: Second most common (15 percent of people will experience this type), affects both children and adults, as adults more in women than men.

You experience intense throbbing pounding pain usually involving one side of the head, gets worse with activities like walking, light and sounds, may have nausea and vomiting, last two to 72 hours, and sometimes have warning symptoms ( flashing lights, zigzag pattern and strange odors)

WHAT CAUSES HEADACHES? Stress, environment (noise, crowds, birght lights, etc), certain foods (cheese chocolate, processed meats, or alcohol), and keeping a headache diary to record patterns and what might have triggered the headache.

HOW TO PREVENT A HEADACHE: Get enough sleep (get a routine time), don't skip meals, exercise regularly (this reduces stress and improves circulation), limit caffeine to less than two drinks a day, drink alcohol in moderation to one to two drinks a day if all possible, don't smoke or use mood changing drugs or sedatives, and identify triggers and avoid.

WHAT'S THE BEST TREATMENT? At the first sign of an attack you should lie down in a dark quiet room , apply a cold cloth to your forehead and try to relax. Prescription medication may be necessary if the headaches occur three to four times a month or more. You can also try over-the-counter medication.

MIGRAINES ARE OFTEN MISDIAGNOSED WHICH LEADS THEM TO NOT BEING TREATED PROPERLY.

WHEN SHOULD YOU BE CONCERNED THAT YOUR HEADACHE ISN'T NORMAL?
If it's your "worse headache ever", headaches that increase in occurence and severity, associated with fever, stiff neck, or rash, if it happens after a head trauma or fall, and it begins after your 50 years old or a child yoounger than three.

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