Migraine
Migraine: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
What Is a Migraine?
A migraine is more than just a bad headache — it’s a neurological condition that can cause intense, throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. Migraines can last for hours or even days, often interfering with daily activities.
Many people with migraines also experience nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Some people have warning signs or sensory disturbances known as auras before the migraine begins.
Migraines are common, affecting over 1 billion people worldwide, and are considered one of the leading causes of disability.
Types of Migraines
1. Migraine Without Aura (Common Migraine)
This is the most frequent type. It includes moderate to severe head pain, usually without any sensory warning signs.
2. Migraine With Aura (Classic Migraine)
This includes visual or sensory disturbances (flashes of light, blind spots, tingling) before the headache begins.
3. Chronic Migraine
Defined as having headaches on 15 or more days per month, with at least 8 of those days involving migraine symptoms.
4. Hemiplegic Migraine
A rare type that causes temporary paralysis or neurological symptoms similar to a stroke.
Symptoms of Migraine
Migraine symptoms typically progress through four stages, although not everyone experiences all of them:
1. Prodrome (1–2 days before)
- Mood changes
- Neck stiffness
- Food cravings
- Frequent yawning
- Constipation
2. Aura (30–60 minutes before)
- Visual disturbances (zigzag lines, flashes)
- Numbness or tingling
- Difficulty speaking
- Hearing noises or music
3. Attack
- Throbbing or pulsating head pain (often one-sided)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light, sound, and smells
- Blurred vision
- Lightheadedness or fainting
4. Postdrome (after the attack)
- Fatigue
- Confusion
- Moodiness or depression
- Residual head tenderness
Common Migraine Triggers
Migraines are often triggered by environmental, emotional, or physical factors, including:
- Stress or anxiety
- Hormonal changes (e.g., menstruation)
- Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns
- Bright lights or loud noises
- Skipping meals or dehydration
- Certain foods (aged cheese, chocolate, processed meats)
- Alcohol, especially red wine
- Caffeine withdrawal
- Weather changes
- Strong smells (perfume, smoke)
Keeping a migraine diary can help identify personal triggers.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of migraines is not fully understood, but they are believed to result from abnormal brain activity that affects nerve signals, chemicals, and blood vessels.
Risk factors include:
- Family history: Migraines often run in families.
- Age: Migraines often begin in adolescence or early adulthood.
- Gender: Women are three times more likely to have migraines than men.
- Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in estrogen can trigger migraines in women.
Diagnosing Migraines
There is no specific test for migraines. Diagnosis is based on:
- Medical history
- Symptom patterns
- Neurological exam
In some cases, a doctor may order imaging tests (CT or MRI) to rule out other conditions.
Migraine Treatment Options
Migraine treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing future attacks.
1. Acute (Abortive) Treatments
Used during a migraine attack to stop or reduce pain:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
- Triptans (e.g., sumatriptan)
- Anti-nausea medications
- Ergotamine derivatives (less commonly used)
2. Preventive Treatments
For people with frequent or severe migraines:
- Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol)
- Antidepressants
- Anti-seizure medications
- CGRP inhibitors (e.g., Aimovig, Emgality)
- Botox injections (for chronic migraines)
Lifestyle Changes and Home Remedies
Making daily changes can reduce the frequency and severity of migraines:
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule
- Eat at consistent times and stay hydrated
- Manage stress with relaxation techniques (yoga, meditation)
- Avoid known triggers
- Exercise regularly, but not excessively
- Limit screen time and protect eyes from glare
Some people find relief with alternative therapies such as acupuncture, biofeedback, or magnesium and riboflavin supplements — consult your doctor before trying these.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical help if:
- You have frequent or severe headaches
- Your symptoms worsen or change over time
- You have neurological symptoms (e.g., confusion, weakness, vision loss)
- Your migraines interfere significantly with your daily life
A proper diagnosis is essential for effective management and treatment.
Final Thoughts
Migraines are more than just headaches — they are complex neurological events that can greatly impact your life. Fortunately, with the right treatment plan, lifestyle changes, and support, most people can manage their migraines effectively.
Understanding your triggers, working closely with a healthcare provider, and prioritizing self-care can make a significant difference in your long-term well-being.
