Mixed Tension Migraine - Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Introduction

Tension headaches and migraines may both be uncomfortable, painful, and draining. About 39 million Americans, as reported by the American Migraine Foundation, suffer from headaches. In the meantime, stress headaches affect at least two out of every three individuals in the United States.

The symptoms of these two disorders are combined in a mixed-tension migraine. There are situations where the symptoms of tension headaches start with a migraine. Sometimes, a migraine is brought on by the tension headache's stress.

Although preventing a mixed-tension migraine is not always achievable, there are management techniques and therapy alternatives that can help enhance the quality of life.

What Is Mixed Tension Migraine?

According to scientific theory, headaches can range from tension headaches at one end to migraines at the other. A headache that combines the symptoms of a tension headache with a migraine headache is called a mixed tension migraine. Women experience them more frequently than men do.

Migraines are considered to be caused by chemicals that induce pain and inflammation around blood vessels and nerves in the brain. Worldwide, millions of individuals regularly suffer from migraine headaches. Although the exact etiology of migraines is still unknown, some experts think that impaired neurons may be the culprit. Some attribute the cause to blood vessel constriction.

Meanwhile, tension headaches result from tense muscles in the scalp, back, and neck. Problems with sleep or stress may be the cause of this. It is the most prevalent headache, per the World Health Organization.

Mixed tension migraines are at the center of the headache spectrum because they exhibit symptoms of both tension and migraine headaches. It is thought that tension from the migraine occurs first, causing a tension headache. Most people can control this kind of headache by taking medicine and avoiding things that cause them.

What Are the Symptoms of Mixed Tension Migraine?

Both tension headache and migraine symptoms might be present in mixed tension migraines.

A mixed tension migraine can cause mild to severe pain that ranges from dull to throbbing. A normal mixed tension migraine lasts four to seventy-two hours. Mixed tension migraine symptoms include:

• Discomfort on one or both sides of the head that might intensify with movement.

• Vomiting or nausea.

• Light or sound sensitivity, or both.

• Neck pain.

• Fatigue.

• Irritation.

• Depression.

• Tingling or numbness.

• Weakness in the extremities.

• Pain that pulses or hammers.

• Eyes watering.

• Congestion in the nose.

• A dull ache that feels like a ring around the skull.

If triggers persist, such as bright lights or physically demanding activities, these symptoms can worsen.

What Are the Triggers for Mixed Tension Migraine?

Various factors can contribute to mixed tension migraines, including:

• Prolonged periods in positions that strain the neck, such as desk work.

• Sleeping in a cold environment with an uncomfortable neck position.

• Stress, whether physical or emotional.

• Consumption of alcohol or caffeine in excess or experiencing withdrawal from caffeine.

• Sinus infections.

• Habitual jaw clenching and teeth grinding.

• Excessive strain on the eyes.

• Smoking.

• Engaging in strenuous activities.

• Disruptions to sleep patterns.

• Hormonal fluctuations.

• Changes in weather conditions.

• Certain foods.

• Dehydration.

• Exposure to bright or natural light.

• Certain odors.

• Specific medications.

• Skipping meals.

• Socioeconomic factors such as lower income.

• Somatization, where psychological stress manifests as physical symptoms without an organic cause.

When a migraine initiates, it may induce stress, potentially triggering a tension headache. Conversely, stress or sleep disturbances associated with tension headaches can provoke migraines.

How to Diagnose Mixed Tension Migraine?

Medical experts use a variety of methods to identify mixed tension migraines, such as:

• Personal and Family Medical History: The physician may ask to keep a migraine journal and ask about the symptoms and family history of headaches and migraines.

• Neurological Exam: This evaluates consciousness, reflexes, motor function, balance, sensory responses, coordination, and awareness to rule out significant problems involving the neurological system.

• Imaging Tests (CT and MRI Scans): CT (computed tomography) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans assist in identifying anomalies in the brain or blood vessels, including tumors, bleeding, strokes, infections, and neurological problems.

• Eye Exam: If symptoms relating to the eyes are present, an ophthalmologist may perform an eye exam and pressure test to rule out optic nerve pressure or glaucoma.

• Blood Tests: These are prescribed to rule out illnesses linked to headaches, such as diabetes or thyroid problems.

• Spinal Tap: A spinal tap may be performed if a spinal headache is suspected to find leaks and underlying reasons. This procedure analyzes cerebrospinal fluid.

• Lumbar Puncture: It can be recommended in extreme cases of mixed tension migraine.

Treatment for mixed tension migraines might start once underlying issues are taken care of.

What Is the Treatment for Mixed Tension Migraine?

Treatments for tension headaches and migraines can be used to treat mixed tension migraine. The symptoms will determine the course of treatment.

1. Medications and Drugs: The following drugs are used to treat mixed tension migraines:

• Triptans: Narrow blood vessels to reduce migraine discomfort.

• Analgesics: They include Acetaminophen, which reduces the discomfort of less severe migraines and tension headaches.

• Combination Analgesics: They frequently include caffeine to reduce the discomfort of tension and migraines.

• Medication Derived From Ergot: These aids in reducing pain impulses that go through the nerves Nonsteroidal

• Anti-inflammatory Medications (NSAIDs): These analgesics also relieve pain and inflammation, and they include Ibuprofen and Aspirin.

• Antiemetic Medications: Reduce the emesis and nausea brought on by a mixed tension migraine.

Mixed tension migraines can be avoided with a variety of drugs. Among these drugs are:

• Beta-Blockers: These were originally developed to treat hypertension but can also stop migraines.

• Calcium Channel Blockers: Aid in maintaining the same size of blood vessels and encourage healthy blood flow

• Antidepressants: They affect the brain's neurotransmitters and can stop headaches.

2. Dietary Practices and Adjunctive Treatment: Mixed tension migraines can be relieved by several different techniques in addition to medicine. Deficits in magnesium and vitamin B2 have been seen in migraineurs. Increasing the amount of those vitamins consumed helps avoid migraines. It may also be beneficial to eat consistently throughout the day, drink enough water, exercise frequently, and get adequate sleep. Relief options include physical therapy, massage, relaxation training, and applying moist heat to the back of the neck.

3. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Biofeedback: Biofeedback and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are useful to certain people. One will learn how to manage the reaction to stress and become conscious of what triggers stress in both therapies. Through CBT, a therapist will assist in identifying stressful ideas. They will give tips on how to alter thinking and reduce tension. Using specialized tools, biofeedback teaches how to monitor and manage stress-related behaviors like tense muscles.

Conclusion

In summary, getting a proper diagnosis and paying strict attention to the doctor's instructions is essential to managing these migraines. Gaining knowledge about the causes, symptoms, and treatments of mixed-tension headaches may enhance life. When signs of a mixed tension migraine are noticed, contact the doctor.