Headache and Migraine

Headache and migraine are among the most common neurological complaints in society and can significantly affect quality of life. Today, due to intense stress, irregular sleep, prolonged screen use, and the physical and mental demands of modern life, the frequency of these conditions is steadily increasing. Recurrent and severe pain can directly impact daily activities, work performance, and psychological well-being.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı, who has been treating patients in the field of neurosurgery for many years, emphasizes that not all headaches are the same and that migraine must be clearly distinguished from other types of headache.

What Is a Headache?

A headache is pain felt in the head region and can occur due to many different causes. It may present as mild pressure or as severe pain that interferes with daily life. Headache can be a condition on its own or a symptom of another underlying disease.

Headaches are generally divided into two main groups:

Primary Headaches

Primary headaches occur without an underlying disease. The most common types include:

• Tension-type headache
• Migraine
• Cluster headache

These headaches are not directly caused by serious conditions such as brain tumors.

Secondary Headaches

Secondary headaches develop due to another underlying condition, such as:

• Brain tumor
• Brain hemorrhage
• Infections
• Trauma

Therefore, newly developed or unusual headaches should always be evaluated.

What Is Migraine?

Migraine is a specific type of headache that usually occurs in attacks. It is typically throbbing and often felt on one side of the head, although it may affect both sides in some patients.

Migraine is not just a headache but a neurological disorder.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı states that migraine is related to the sensitivity of the brain’s nerve and vascular systems and can be controlled with proper treatment.

What Are the Symptoms of Migraine?

Migraine symptoms vary from person to person. Common symptoms include:

• Severe headache
• Throbbing pain
• Sensitivity to light
• Sensitivity to sound
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Visual disturbances

In some patients, symptoms called aura may appear before the migraine attack, such as:

• Flashes of light
• Vision loss
• Numbness

What Is the Difference Between Headache and Migraine?

Headache and migraine are often confused but are different conditions.

Tension-type headache is usually:

• Pressure-like
• Milder
• Felt across the entire head

Migraine is:

• More severe
• Throbbing
• Usually one-sided
• Accompanied by nausea

Therefore, accurate diagnosis is very important.

What Causes Headaches?

Many factors contribute to headache and migraine:

• Stress: Causes muscle tension and pain
• Lack of sleep: Prevents brain rest
• Dehydration: Insufficient water intake triggers headaches
• Prolonged screen use: Strains neck muscles
• Hormonal changes: Migraines are more common in women

What Triggers Migraine Attacks?

Common migraine triggers include:

• Stress
• Sleep deprivation
• Hunger
• Bright light
• Fatigue
• Hormonal changes

Avoiding these triggers is important for migraine control.

How Are Headaches Diagnosed?

Diagnosis begins with taking the patient’s medical history.

If necessary, imaging methods such as MRI or CT scans may be used.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that imaging is especially important in newly developed headaches.

How Is Migraine Treated?

Migraine treatment is planned individually:

Medication: Helps reduce migraine attacks
Lifestyle Changes: Regular sleep, stress management, and healthy nutrition are essential
Avoiding Triggers: Important for long-term control

How to Relieve Headaches?

Methods to relieve headaches include:

• Rest
• Drinking water
• Massage
• Sleep

These are particularly effective for tension-type headaches.

How to Prevent Migraine Attacks?

To prevent migraine attacks:

• Maintain regular sleep
• Eat regularly
• Manage stress

Which Headaches Are Dangerous?

Medical attention is required in the following cases:

• Sudden onset headache
• Severe headache
• Progressively worsening headache
• Headache with vision loss

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that unusual headaches should not be ignored.

How Do Headache and Migraine Affect Quality of Life?

Headache and migraine can significantly affect daily life:

• Reduced work performance
• Impaired social life
• Psychological issues

Therefore, proper treatment is essential.

Who Is More Likely to Experience Migraine?

Migraine is more common in:

• Women
• Individuals under high stress
• People with sleep problems

Can Headache and Migraine Be Prevented?

Yes, lifestyle changes can reduce their frequency. Regular sleep, hydration, and exercise are important.

Headache and migraine are common health problems that can reduce quality of life but can be effectively managed with proper treatment. Not all headaches are the same, and migraine is a distinct condition. Therefore, accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential.

Individuals experiencing severe, persistent, or unusual headaches should always seek medical evaluation. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that with early diagnosis and proper treatment, headache and migraine can be successfully controlled.