Migraine

Migraine 

Migraine is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, throbbing headaches often on one side of the head, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, sound, or smell. Attacks can last from a few hours to several days and may significantly affect daily activities. Migraine is more than “just a headache” and needs proper diagnosis and long-term management.

Migraine 

What is Migraine

Migraine involves abnormal brain activity affecting pain pathways, nerves, and blood vessels. During an attack, chemical changes in the brain trigger inflammation and pain signals.

Types of Migraine

  1. Migraine Without Aura (Common Migraine)

    • Headache with nausea, light/sound sensitivity

  2. Migraine With Aura

    • Visual or sensory symptoms before headache (flashes of light, zig-zag lines, numbness)

  3. Chronic Migraine

    • Headache on ≥15 days per month for 3 months, with migraine features on several days

  4. Menstrual Migraine

    • Linked to hormonal changes in women

  5. Vestibular Migraine

    • Dizziness/vertigo with or without headache

Common Triggers

  • Stress or emotional changes

  • Lack of sleep or irregular sleep

  • Skipping meals, dehydration

  • Certain foods (chocolate, cheese, processed foods, MSG)

  • Caffeine excess or withdrawal

  • Bright lights, loud noise

  • Strong smells

  • Weather changes

  • Hormonal changes (menstruation)

Common Symptoms

  • Moderate to severe throbbing head pain

  • Pain usually on one side (can be both)

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Sensitivity to light, sound, smells

  • Visual disturbances (aura)

  • Fatigue, irritability

  • Worsens with physical activity

Risk Factors

  • Family history of migraine

  • Female gender

  • Stressful lifestyle

  • Hormonal changes

  • Anxiety, depression

  • Poor sleep

  • Obesity