Headache vs. Chronic Migraine Symptoms: What’s the Difference

Many people mistake chronic migraines for severe headaches, but there are distinct differences. Understanding these differences can help you find the best migraine treatment in Walnut Creek, Concord, and across the Bay Area.

Types of Headaches & Their Causes

There are several common types of headaches, each with unique causes:

• Tension Headaches – Caused by stress, eye strain, or dehydration, with pain that spreads across both sides of the head.
• Sinus Headaches – Often triggered by sinus infections, allergies, or colds, causing pressure behind the nose, cheeks, and eyes.
• Cluster Headaches – Extremely painful and occur in recurring cycles, often triggered by bright lights, altitude changes, or physical activity.

Migraine Symptoms: How to Tell If It’s More Than a Headache

‍Migraines are a neurological disorder that affects brain function and blood flow. Unlike headaches, migraines often include:

• Severe throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Sensitivity to light, sounds, or strong odors.
• Dizziness or vertigo.
• Extreme fatigue before or after an attack.

The 4 Stages of a Migraine

‍Migraines usually occur in four distinct phases:

1. Prodrome (Warning Signs) – Mood swings, food cravings, and neck stiffness appear hours or days before the migraine.
2. Aura (Sensory Symptoms) – Some people experience blurred vision, blind spots, tingling, or trouble speaking.
3. Headache Phase – Intense pain lasting hours to days, worsened by movement, lights, or sounds.
4. Postdrome (Recovery Phase) – Fatigue, confusion, and lingering discomfort after the migraine subsides.

Common Migraine Triggers

‍Migraines don’t have a single cause but are often triggered by:

• Hormonal changes (especially in women).
• Stress, anxiety, and poor sleep habits.
• Caffeine, alcohol, and certain processed foods.
• Strong smells, bright lights, and loud noises.
• Weather changes, dehydration, and skipped meals.

When to See a Doctor for Migraines or Chronic Headaches

‍If headaches or migraines disrupt your daily life, seeking medical care is crucial. Consider visiting a Bay Area headache specialist if you experience:

• Frequent headaches (more than 15 days per month).
• Severe migraines that don’t improve with over-the-counter medication.
• Neurological symptoms like vision loss or numbness.

Expert Migraine & Headache Treatment at BASS Medical Group

At BASS Medical Group, we offer comprehensive migraine and headache care in Walnut Creek, Concord, San Francisco, and the Greater Bay Area. If you suffer from chronic migraines, tension headaches, or unexplained head pain, our specialists can help determine the best treatment for you.

• Primary Care Providers (PCPs) – Your first step for headache management, including identifying triggers and prescribing initial medications.
• Neurologists – Specialists for complex or persistent migraines, offering advanced treatment options, including preventative therapies, nerve blocks, and Botox injections for chronic migraines.
• Allergists & ENT Specialists – If sinus headaches or allergies trigger migraines, allergy testing and sinus treatments may help.
• Pain Management Specialists – For severe, treatment-resistant headaches, pain specialists can offer alternative therapies like nerve stimulation or infusion treatments.

Get Relief Today – Contact BASS Medical Group

If headaches or migraines disrupt your daily life, our headache and migraine specialists are here to help. Whether you need a PCP for medication management or a neurologist for specialized care, BASS Medical Group provides expert treatment throughout the Bay Area.

Don’t let chronic headaches control your life—contact BASS Medical Group today to schedule an appointment!