CareIMO

How do I know if my headache is a migraine or a tension headache?

I get headaches 2-3 times a week. Sometimes they're on one side and throbbing, other times it feels like a band squeezing my whole head. How can I tell...

General - 3 replies - 0 verified provider replies

Question

I get headaches 2-3 times a week. Sometimes they're on one side and throbbing, other times it feels like a band squeezing my whole head. How can I tell the difference?

Discussion replies

halfAwakeSam

Yep. And if you're taking OTC pain meds more than 2-3 times a week, those can actually cause rebound headaches.

sunnySideJay

Throbbing on one side with light sensitivity is usually migraine. Band around the head is usually tension.

halfAwakeSam

Sounds like you might get both, which is super common. Track them for a month and patterns usually emerge.

CareIMO discussions are educational and do not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from your own clinician.