Article by Helen Stone

There are four main types of ‘primary headaches’ three of which generally give rise to what could be described as an acute migraine. In actuality a diagnosis of an acute migraine whilst most likely is not the only reason for this sort of migraine pain:

Cluster Headaches: These are known as cluster headaches because they recur for a number of weeks before subsiding. The pain associated with cluster headaches is extremely acute. They occur around the temple or the eye and are confined to one side of the head. They last for an hour or less each time but they can happen several times each day and night, which severely disrupts sleeping patterns.

Tension Headaches: This is the most common form of headache and is felt in a pain in the neck or head. The pain is felt as a pressure on both sides of the neck or head and can last as little as a couple of minutes or as long as a few days. The pain is mild to moderate and whilst unpleasant it is not debilitating. Crucially there are no additional effects to a tension headache such as nausea and it is not significantly worsened by exercise.

Migraine Headaches: A moderate to acute headache which is usually confined to one side of the head. It is a pulsating or throbbing sensation. In contrast to the other types of headaches it is worsened by exercise or exposure to bright or flashing lights as well as loud noises. There are a variety of other symptoms which can include nausea, diarrhea and some people experience visual problems in the build up such as flashing lights and blurred sight. Migraines can last from 4 to 72 hours and occur with varying frequency.

Chronic Daily Headaches: These occur daily and can be any one of the above types. To come under this definition they must occur at least 15 days a month for a period of 3 months or more.

Those suffering from what appear to be acute migraines are indeed most likely to be suffering from migraines or less commonly from cluster headaches. The pain from each can be acute and there are a number of treatment options for both. The most comprehensive information on migraine causes and treatments of acute migraines can be found here.

Those suffering from acute migraines should consult their doctor as severe headaches can occasionally be caused by underlying neurological diseases, especially when they occur in older patients.

About the Author

Helen Stone is an author, artist, interior designer and homeopathic practitioner with a keen in interest in theatre and skiing.

Having suffered from headaches and migraines for much of her adult life she decided to spend the last few years travelling worldwide in order to research migraines, what causes migraines and how best to relieve the pain through natural treatments.

She believes in living life to the full and experiencing and understanding the world as best she can, learning more with each day.

For more migraine tips, treatments and remedies go to http://www.the-migraine-cure.com

Tagged with: Acute • between • difference • headache • migraines • Types

Filed under: Chronic Daily Headache

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