“Headache” is not one diagnosis.
There are many different types of headaches, and understanding the difference can help determine what treatment approach makes sense.
At Axon Integrative Health in Denver, we don’t simply ask:
“Where does your head hurt?”
We want to understand why your brain is generating the pain.
Headache vs. Migraine
A tension-type headache often presents as pressure, tightness, or a band-like sensation around the head.
A cervicogenic headache can originate from structures in the neck and refer pain into the head.
A migraine is a neurological condition that can involve:
- Throbbing or pulsating pain
- Nausea
- Light sensitivity
- Sound sensitivity
- Visual symptoms
- Cognitive changes
- Autonomic symptoms
Not every migraine is severe, and not every migraine involves an aura.
Why Do Migraines Happen?
Migraine involves complex interactions among the brain, blood vessels, trigeminal system, autonomic nervous system, and inflammatory signaling.
Potential triggers include:
- Sleep disruption
- Dehydration
- Stress
- Hormonal changes
- Certain foods
- Alcohol
- Bright light
- Strong smells
- Skipping meals
- Blood sugar fluctuations
- Excessive screen exposure
But triggers vary dramatically from person to person.
What Can You Do at Home?
Sometimes simple physiological interventions can help.
Hydration
Dehydration can be a headache trigger.
Make hydration a daily habit rather than waiting until symptoms begin.
Magnesium
Magnesium is involved in numerous neurological and metabolic processes and has been studied for migraine prevention.
Some people benefit from magnesium supplementation, although the appropriate form and dose should be individualized.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids may influence inflammatory signaling and have been investigated for migraine management.
Breathwork
Breathing patterns influence autonomic nervous system regulation.
Slow, controlled breathing may help reduce sympathetic arousal and stress-related headache triggers.
We generally favor controlled breathing techniques over paper-bag breathing, which can be unsafe in some circumstances.
The Hot-Foot-Bath / Cold-Head Technique
One simple strategy some migraine patients find soothing is placing the feet in comfortably hot water while using a cold cloth or cold pack on the forehead/head.
It may provide sensory and vascular relief for some people.
It isn’t a cure, but it is inexpensive and easy to try.
What About HBOT for Migraine?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, or HBOT, has been studied for migraine and other neurological conditions.
The proposed mechanisms include changes in oxygen delivery, cellular metabolism, inflammation, and vascular physiology.
At Axon/our affiliated recovery environment, HBOT may be considered as part of an individualized brain-health strategy.
It should not be viewed as a universal treatment for every headache.
What Can We Do in Clinic?
Depending on the type and cause of headache, treatment may include:
- Cervical rehabilitation
- Functional neurology
- Vestibular rehabilitation
- Oculomotor rehabilitation
- TMS
- Neurofeedback
- Photobiomodulation
- Breathwork
- Autonomic regulation
- Nutritional strategies
- Magnesium/omega-3 support
- HBOT when appropriate
- Functional medicine evaluation
The key is determining which system is driving the headache.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a migraine and a headache?
A migraine is a neurological disorder that can include headache plus symptoms such as nausea, light sensitivity, sound sensitivity, and visual disturbances.
Can neck problems cause headaches?
Yes. Cervical structures can contribute to cervicogenic headaches.
Can magnesium help migraines?
Magnesium has evidence supporting its use in migraine prevention for some individuals.
Can HBOT help migraines?
Hyperbaric oxygen has been studied as a potential migraine intervention, but evidence remains limited compared with established migraine treatments.
When should I see a headache specialist?
New, severe, rapidly worsening, or unusual headaches warrant medical evaluation. Sudden “worst headache of my life,” neurological deficits, confusion, fever with neck stiffness, or headache following significant trauma requires urgent medical assessment.
