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Health Matters: Providence Mission Hospital | 11 Help for Headaches Know the difference between migraines and headaches. H eadache is the No. 1 cause of pain and a top reason for missing work or school, according to Joey Gee, DO, a board- certified neurologist and headache and migraine specialist at Providence Mission Hospital. "People who have recurring headaches often find it's difficult to determine if the pain is a simple headache, a migraine or a symptom of another neurological disorder. At Providence Mission Hospital, our goal is to restore neurological wellness for our patients." Here's a basic guide to understanding the difference between migraines and headaches. What are the symptoms of migraines and headaches? Headaches are described as pain in any part of the head that is either sharp or dull. A headache can last for an hour or up to several days. Migraines, however, have more distinct symptoms, according to Dr. Gee. "Migraine pain is characterized as intense pulsing or throbbing pain in one area of the head. A migraine is often diagnosed based on pain and number of attacks (at least five episodes that last from four to 72 hours if untreated). They can be accompanied by nausea or vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound. Some people experience an aura, which is often a visual disturbance that appears as flashing lights, zigzag lines, a temporary loss of vision or even vertigo, speech impairment, confusion and weakness. Auras associated with migraines can also involve symptoms of vertigo, speech impairment, confusion and even weakness." Can certain foods contribute to headaches and migraines? "Migraines can be triggered by delayed or missed meals, menstruation, stress, weather changes, alcohol and certain odors," says Dr. Gee. "Common dietary triggers include chocolate, soft cheeses, red wine and artificial sweeteners and additives such as monosodium glutamate." Cheeses and meats containing the amino acid tyramine also can trigger simple headaches in some people. Headaches can also be caused by withdrawal from a diet heavy in coffee consumption. How are headaches and migraines treated? Over-the-counter pain relievers can typically halt a simple headache, says Dr. Gee. "When headaches occur three or more times a month, I recommend preventive treatment under the care of a neurologist. This can include avoiding the factors that seem to trigger the headaches, such as lack of sleep, excessive stress and caffeine consumption. Acupuncture, massage, exercise and relaxation techniques can reduce headache pain. Migraine treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing additional attacks. Drug therapy, biofeedback training, stress reduction and elimination of certain foods from the diet are the most common methods of preventing and controlling migraine and other vascular headaches." Join Dr. Joey Gee to learn more about headaches, migraines and treatment options at a webinar, 12 noon on March 8. Register at providence.org/missionclasses.

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