
Understanding Migraines and Headaches: An In-Depth Exploration
Migraines and headaches are two of the most common health complaints in Australia. While both conditions can cause significant discomfort, they have different causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches.
Millions suffer from these conditions each year, with migraines affecting a considerable portion of the population.
Let's explore the key differences between migraines and headaches, their causes, presents data on the prevalence of these conditions in Australia, along with insights from leading experts in the field.
3 things you didn't know about migraines
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Migraines Are a Neurological Disorder: Unlike ordinary headaches, migraines are a complex neurological condition involving abnormal brain activity. This can affect blood flow, nerve signalling, and chemical imbalances in the brain.
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Migraines Can Last for Days: A single migraine attack can last anywhere from 4 hours to 72 hours or more. During this period, individuals may experience intense throbbing pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound.
- Migraines Are More Common in Women: Hormonal changes, particularly fluctuations in estrogen levels, play a significant role in the prevalence of migraines.
The Difference Between Migraines and Headaches
What is a Headache?
A headache is pain or discomfort in any part of the head, scalp, or neck. There are several types of headaches, each with distinct characteristics:
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Tension Headaches: The most common type, characterised by a constant, dull ache or pressure around the forehead or the back of the head. It often results from stress, poor posture, or muscle tension.
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Cluster Headaches: A rare but intense form of headache, often occurring in cyclical patterns or "clusters." The pain is usually located around one eye or one side of the head.
- Sinus Headaches: Caused by inflammation of the sinuses, often associated with sinus infections.
What is a Migraine?
A migraine is a more severe and complex condition that often includes headache as a symptom but is usually accompanied by additional symptoms. Migraines are a neurological disorder, typically characterised by intense, throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. Migraines often include:
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Aura: About 20-30% of people with migraines experience sensory disturbances known as aura. These can include visual disturbances (flashes of light, blind spots) or other sensory changes like tingling or numbness.
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Nausea and Vomiting: Many migraine sufferers experience gastrointestinal symptoms along with the headache.
- Sensitivity to Light and Sound: Migraines often cause photophobia (light sensitivity) and phonophobia (sound sensitivity), making it difficult for sufferers to tolerate normal environments.
Key Differences Between Migraines and Headaches
Feature | Headaches | Migraines |
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Pain Type | Dull, pressure-like | Throbbing, pulsating |
Location | Forehead, temples, back of head | Usually one side of the head |
Duration | Minutes to a few hours | Hours to days |
Other Symptoms | Rare (in tension headaches) | Nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound |
Triggers | Stress, dehydration, poor posture | Hormonal changes, specific foods, stress, sensory stimuli |
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Causes of Migraines and Headaches
The causes of headaches and migraines differ widely, though there can be overlap.
Causes of Headaches:
- Stress: Tension headaches are often triggered by emotional or physical stress.
- Dehydration: A common cause of headaches, especially in Australia’s hot climate.
- Eye Strain: Spending long hours in front of screens can trigger headaches.
- Poor Posture: Sitting or standing incorrectly can strain muscles, leading to tension headaches.
Causes of Migraines:
- Genetics: Migraines often run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition.
- Hormonal Changes: Many women report migraines linked to their menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause.
- Diet: Certain foods and drinks, like aged cheeses, alcohol (especially red wine), and caffeine, can trigger migraines.
- Sensory Stimuli: Bright lights, loud sounds, and strong smells are common migraine triggers.
- Sleep Patterns: Disrupted or irregular sleep can precipitate migraines.
Data on Migraines and Headaches in Australia

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), an estimated 4.9 million Australians suffer from migraines, with women being more affected than men.
The Migraine in Australia Whitepaper (2021) highlighted that migraines cost the Australian economy around $35.7 billion annually, primarily through healthcare expenses, lost productivity, and decreased quality of life.
- 1 in 5 Australians experience regular migraines.
- Approximately 71% of those with migraines are women.
- Migraines tend to peak between the ages of 18 and 44, affecting younger adults more than older populations.
- A study by Migraine & Headache Australia found that 86% of working Australians with migraines report that their condition negatively affects their productivity​.
Insights from Experts
Dr. Richard Stark, a leading Australian neurologist, has extensively researched migraines. He explains that:
"Migraines are not just bad headaches; they are a complex neurological condition. While headaches can be treated with over-the-counter medications, migraines often require a more comprehensive approach, including lifestyle changes and prescription treatments."
In an interview with the Sydney Morning Herald, Professor Paul Martin from Griffith University, who specialises in migraine research, highlighted the importance of early intervention:
"The key to managing migraines is identifying and avoiding triggers. If patients can recognise what sparks their migraines—whether it’s certain foods, stress, or environmental factors—they can take proactive steps to reduce the frequency of attacks."
Managing Migraines and Headaches
Treatment and management of migraines and headaches vary depending on the severity and type. For tension headaches, simple remedies like hydration, rest, and over-the-counter pain relief (e.g., paracetamol or ibuprofen) are often effective.
For migraines, treatment can be more complex:
- Medication: Triptans, anti-nausea medications, and preventive medicines may be prescribed for frequent migraines.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Regular sleep, hydration, and avoiding known triggers can help manage migraines.
- Alternative Therapies: Some sufferers find relief through natural medicine, acupuncture, relaxation techniques, and dietary changes.
Lifestyle and Non-Medication Treatments
Many individuals turn to natural remedies to manage and prevent migraines, especially if they prefer to avoid prescription medications or experience side effects from conventional treatments.
Non-drug treatments play an essential role in managing migraines, particularly for people who prefer to avoid medications or cannot tolerate their side effects.
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Dietary Changes: Some foods, such as aged cheeses, alcohol, and caffeine, can trigger migraines in susceptible individuals. Keeping a food diary to identify and avoid triggers can be a helpful preventive measure​.
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Hydration: Dehydration is a common migraine trigger. Drinking enough water throughout the day can help prevent headaches​.
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Sleep Hygiene: Maintaining a regular sleep schedule is important for preventing migraines. Both too much and too little sleep can trigger migraines, so it’s important to aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night​.
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Stress Management: Since stress is a well-known trigger for migraines, relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation can be helpful in reducing migraine frequency.
Summary
Migraines and headaches are common, yet they can be debilitating for many Australians. Understanding the differences between the two conditions is essential for effective management and treatment.
While headaches may often be resolved with simple remedies, migraines typically require a more comprehensive approach, combining medication, lifestyle changes, and the avoidance of known triggers.
In Australia, the prevalence and economic impact of migraines underscore the need for better public awareness, research, and access to specialised care. With proper management, many individuals can reduce the frequency and intensity of their headaches or migraines, leading to an improved quality of life.
Sources:
- Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), National Health Survey
- Migraine in Australia Whitepaper, 2021
- Migraine & Headache Australia, Expert Interviews with Dr. Richard Stark and Professor Paul Martin