Debate: differences and similarities between tension-type headache and migraine

Dilara Onan, Samaira Younis, William David Wellsgatnik, Fatemeh Farham, Saulius Andruškevičius, Ana Abashidze, Asel Jusupova, Yuriy Romanenko, Oxana Grosu, Meerimgul Zamirbekovna Moldokulova, Ulkar Mursalova, Saida Saidkhodjaeva, Paolo Martelletti, Sait Ashina*

*Corresponding author for this work
23 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Tension-type headache (TTH) and migraine are two common primary headaches distinguished by clinical characteristics according to the 3rd edition of the International Classification of Headache Disorders. Migraine is identified by specific features such as being more prevalent in females, being aggravated by physical activity, certain genetic factors, having photophobia, phonophobia, nausea, vomiting, or aura, and responding to specific drugs. Nonetheless, TTH and migraine share some common characteristics, such as onset occurring in the 20 s, and being triggered by psychological factors like stress, moderate pain severity, and mild nausea in chronic TTH. Both conditions involve the trigeminovascular system in their pathophysiology. However, distinguishing between TTH and migraine in clinical practice, research, and epidemiological studies can be challenging, as there is a lack of specific diagnostic tests and biomarkers. Moreover, both conditions may coexist, further complicating the diagnostic process. This review aims to explore the similarities and differences in the pathophysiology, epidemiology, burden and disability, comorbidities, and responses to pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments of TTH and migraine. The review also discusses future research directions to address the diagnostic challenges and improve the understanding and management of these conditions.

Original languageEnglish
Article number92
JournalJournal of Headache and Pain
Volume24
Issue number1
ISSN1129-2369
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 21 Jul 2023

Keywords

  • CGRP
  • Central sensitization
  • Headache
  • International Classification of Headache Disorders
  • Migraine
  • Pericranial tenderness
  • Tension-type headache
  • Triptan

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Debate: differences and similarities between tension-type headache and migraine'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this