The difference beween migraines and tension headaches

Migraine headaches are often stereotyped and used to describe severe headaches. However as a massage therapist, what is most typically seen is a tension headache. Tension headaches can have similar symptoms much like a migraine headache. The difference is that Migraine headaches are usually caused by genetic factors (they are hereditary), a chemical imbalance in the brain or a hormonal imbalance. Of course you will also find headaches which are caused by tumors and such but we are discussing mostly the difference between those that are chemically or hormonally imbalanced and the headaches caused by chronic stress. If it is a tension headache, then you're odds of natural treatments are much higher and less complicated than a true migraine headache. Tension headaches are mostly originate in the following muscles: cervical (neck), upper back, head and face. When working with trigger points along the scalp and face, most people are surprised to know they have muscles in these areas. Indeed they do and if trigger points persist, as well as tension this could create massive pain and be just as debilitating as a true migraine headache. As I stated, trigger points can be treated to relieve tension headaches. Its important that the average person is educated between the difference of these two types of headaches. A tension headache can be treated by your local massage therapist and a migraine should be diagnosed by someone with higher training in the medical field to truly classify the kind of headache. T.M.J. (tempero-mandibular joint) is known as tension in the jaw muscles on both sides of the face and can also cause headaches. I've treated people with such severe "jaw pain" that they were unable to open their mouths completely without a sharp pain being delivered to their temple areas. So, if your experiencing headaches, do not be quick to self diagnose it as a "migraine", please remember that accumulated stress untreated for long periods of time can cause pain in your body. I encourage you to visit a professional massage therapist , if the headaches continue, seek help from a medical specialist to rule out any other serious conditions. Meanwhile, for those of those of you suffering from typical stress and mounting tension, take comfort in knowing your headaches can be treated in a safe and natural way. Stay Healthy!