SMASHING HEALTH MYTHS: migraines....they're more than killer headaches

It can be hard to get certain persistent misconceptions out of our thick skulls. The next time you hear one of these, jump in and healthsplain.

-  KATE ROCKWOOD

We've all heard our share of "facts," from health-related the idea that you should tip your head back to stop a nosebleed (that can cause blood to pool in your throat, which could make you vomit and worsen your bleeding) to the blanket advice to drink eight glasses of water a day (in fact, individual daily hydration needs are based on a bunch of varying factors). Here are some of the most prevailing health myths out there-busted by truth. Knowing what's what can help you stay healthy for real.

MYTH: Migraines are simply bad headaches.

TRUTH: Migraine is actually a neurological disease that causes a slew of symptoms beyond pain such as nausea; dizziness; trouble concentrating; sensitivity to light and noise; and speech and language problems. "These other symptoms wouldn't necessarily happen with a headache. A migraine is like a headache plus, plus, plus," says Merle Diamond, M.D., president and medical director of the Diamond Headache Clinic and a board member of the National Headache Foundation. In fact, a migraine can disrupt life so much that one in four people with migraines reports missing work or school and one in three reports missing family or social activities because of symptoms, research has found. "Migraine is the second most disabling disease in terms of lost hours of life," says Dr. Diamond. Which means popping an aspirin probably won't cut it you might need a prescription medication for the pain, so chat with your doctor or ask for a referral to a neurologist who specializes in migraine.

MYTH: Staring at screens will ruin your eyes.