Advertisement
question

How can I tell if I have a migraine or just a bad headache?

RealAge
RealAge
answer
This quick test simulates a reversal of the narrowing (constriction) of blood vessels that occurs during migraine headaches.
  • If you are currently experiencing a headache, press your fingers on both temples, or have someone press on your temples.
  • After one to two minutes, release the pressure on your temples.
  • If you feel better with pressure against your temples and worse when the pressure is removed, your current headache has an 80% likelihood of being a migraine.

Continue Learning about Migraine Headaches

What are "medication overuse" headaches?
What are "medication overuse" headaches?
As the name implies, medication overuse headache (MOH) is a secondary headache disorder that occurs as a result of overusing pain-relief medications. ...
Read More
Migraines: How many headache days do you experience?
Migraines: How many headache days do you experience?
Migraines are a type of recurring headache that affect an estimated 20 percent of women and 10 percent of men at some point in their lives. These head...
Read More
How planning ahead can help prevent migraines
How planning ahead can help prevent migraines
If you are managing migraines, you know that it’s important to avoid anything that could trigger an attack, such as a certain food, a lack of sleep, o...
Read More
Understanding and coping with migraine-related stigma
Understanding and coping with migraine-related stigma
Living with migraines isn’t easy. In addition to episodes of debilitating symptoms, there is the uncertainty of not knowing when a migraine attack wil...
Read More

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.