Kapanlagi.com - Headaches, migraines, and vertigo are often considered the same disorder, even though all three have different causes, symptoms, and treatments. Mistakes in recognizing these types of disorders can have fatal consequences, as they can lead to inappropriate treatment choices that worsen the patient's condition.
A neurologist from Hermina Bitung Hospital, Dr. Jeffry Foraldy Haryanto, Sp.N, revealed that many people are still confused about distinguishing between migraines and vertigo. "This is also sometimes when migraines and vertigo are misunderstood by the public; the complaint is actually a migraine but is referred to as vertigo," he stated in an exclusive interview with ANTARA on Thursday (6/2).
Understanding the characteristics of each of these conditions is crucial so that the treatment provided is more accurate and effective. So, what are the fundamental differences between headaches, migraines, and vertigo? Let's delve into the explanation.
1. Headache
A headache, or more commonly known as cephalgia, is a medical condition that can cause anyone to experience extraordinary discomfort. This pain can occur in various areas, ranging from the head, back of the neck, to the upper back. In the medical world, headaches are divided into two main categories: primary and secondary.
Primary headaches are types that occur without any underlying disease. There are three main forms of primary headaches:
1. Tension Headache: Imagine as if someone is tightly binding your head. This pain is often triggered by stress, fatigue, or lack of sleep.
2. Cluster Headache: Sharp pain that usually feels around the eyes comes suddenly and intensely, even though it lasts only a short time. However, these attacks can recur over a certain period.
3. Migraine: This is a type of headache that is more severe, with a throbbing pain on one side of the head. Often, migraines are accompanied by nausea and increased sensitivity to light and sound.
On the other hand, secondary headaches are the result of other underlying conditions, such as sinusitis, ear infections, severe hypertension, or even brain tumors. If you experience headaches accompanied by additional symptoms such as seizures or vision disturbances, do not hesitate to consult a doctor immediately.
2. Migraine
Migraine is often misunderstood as a regular headache, whereas it actually has characteristics that are much more complex. Dr. Jeffry explains that migraines typically present with a throbbing pain that is often felt only on one side of the head. However, it is not uncommon for this pain to shift or spread throughout the head.
"The characteristics of migraines are not always the same; usually, the pain occurs on one side, it could be on the right or left, and sometimes it shifts. All types of headaches can occur," says Dr. Jeffry.
There are several distinctive signs that indicate a migraine, including:
1. Very intense throbbing pain.
2. Nausea, vomiting, or blurred vision.
3. High sensitivity to light and sound.
4. The duration of an attack can last between 4 to 72 hours, and often worsens with physical activity.
If migraines are not managed properly, this condition can worsen and occur repeatedly. Therefore, it is important to recognize the symptoms of migraines in order to receive the appropriate and effective treatment.
3. Vertigo
Unlike headaches or migraines that only torment with pain, vertigo is a balance disorder that takes the sufferer into an extraordinary experience: as if the world around them is spinning endlessly. Vertigo is divided into two main types worth noting:
1. Central Vertigo: This type arises due to problems in the brain, such as tumors, strokes, or infections that disrupt normal functions.
2. Peripheral Vertigo: This is the more common type, caused by disturbances in the balance organs in the inner ear.
The symptoms of vertigo are very distinctive and can make anyone feel uncomfortable, including:
- Unavoidable sensations of spinning or swaying.
- Loss of balance, making steps feel unsteady.
- Nausea and vomiting that accompany it, even ringing in the ears.
- Abnormal eye movements (nystagmus), adding to the discomfort.
"The vestibular system is in the ear, so the right and left ears have balance organs, so if there are problems there, they are sensitive, aging, or there has been head trauma, an accident. It can be overreactive, so usually, it’s easy to get dizzy, for example, with changes in head position, leading to dizziness, nausea, vomiting," added Dr. Jeffry.
4. How to Recognize and Manage Headaches, Migraines, and Vertigo
To manage these three conditions, it is important to recognize the symptoms first. If headaches or migraines are triggered by stress or lack of sleep, getting enough rest and managing stress can help. Meanwhile, those suffering from vertigo should avoid sudden changes in head position.
If you experience the following symptoms, consult a doctor immediately:
- Severe headache that suddenly appears.
- Head pain that does not go away even after taking medication.
- Prolonged vertigo accompanied by hearing disturbances.
5. People Also Ask (FAQ)
Q: Does migraine always occur on one side of the head?
A: Not always. Although migraines generally occur on one side, the pain can shift or even be felt all over the head.
Q: Is vertigo considered a headache?
A: No. Vertigo is more related to balance disorders than to headaches.
Q: How to manage vertigo?
A: Avoid sudden position changes, drink enough fluids, and perform balance exercises if recommended by a doctor.
Q: When should I see a doctor if I experience headaches or vertigo?
A: If the headache is very severe, does not improve, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as vision and balance disturbances, consult a doctor immediately.
(kpl/rmt)
Disclaimer: This translation from Bahasa Indonesia to English has been generated by Artificial Intelligence.
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