Debate: Differences and Similarities Between Tension-Type Headache and Migraine Publisher Pubmed



Onan D¹ ; Younis S² ; Wellsgatnik WD³ ; Farham F⁴ ; Andruskevicius S⁵ ; Abashidze A⁶ ; Jusupova A⁷ ; Romanenko Y⁸ ; Grosu O⁹ ; Moldokulova MZ¹⁰ ; Mursalova U¹¹ ; Saidkhodjaeva S¹² ; Martelletti P³ ; Ashina S^{13, 14} Show Affiliations
Source: Journal of Headache and Pain Published:2023

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. Graphical Abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.] © 2023, The Author(s).