Migraine: Causes, triggers, symptoms and treatment explained

Migraine is a recurrent, episodic, and severe, pulsating headache that usually starts on one side of the head. It can be aggravated by physical activity and is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting and is influenced by genetic factors.

Common Triggers for Migraine

There are a number of factors that may trigger a migraine. These include hormonal changes and fasting, along with stress and a lack of sleep. It has also been found that migraines may be precipitated by loud sounds and strong odours as well. Some people experience migraines after consuming certain foods, such as cheese or chocolate. Drinking a reduced amount of water can lead to dehydration, which further leads to migraines.

Also Read: Migraine triggers: From disturbed sleep to bright lights, identify causes of your headache

Recognising Migraine Pain

Migraine pain is classically described as unilateral, throbbing or pulsating and moderate to severe in intensity. Routine activities like climbing stairs, bending, or walking can worsen the discomfort. Many people also experience:

Photophobia (increased sensitivity to light)

Phonophobia (intolerance to loud noise)

An untreated migraine attack may last anywhere from a few hours to several days.

Migraine with Aura

Some individuals experience aura, a type of migraine that involves neurological symptoms that occur before the headache begins. These are reversible and last for less than an hour. Aura includes the presence of flashing lights or speech disturbances, along with motor weakness, and these are followed by a headache.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Nausea and vomiting are common during an episode of migraine. The affected person may also experience bloating and abdominal discomfort. Gastric emptying may be delayed, which can slow down the action of oral medications. Hence, managing the gastrointestinal symptoms is also necessary.

Also Read: Cure migraine headaches naturally with these neurosurgeon-approved tips

Treatment

For an episode of migraine, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often advised, like ibuprofen or paracetamol. Antiemetics may aid in reducing nausea and increasing absorption in the gastrointestinal tract.
Lifestyle Modifications: Lifestyle modifications may help manage the symptoms of migraine. These include keeping a regular sleep cycle and hydrating adequately. Reducing stress through yoga and meditation, and including exercise in the daily routine can also be helpful. It is advised to visit the healthcare provider if the symptoms worsen.

FAQs on Migraines

What are common symptoms of a migraine?

Common symptoms include a unilateral, throbbing headache, nausea, vomiting, increased sensitivity to light (photophobia), and intolerance to loud noise (phonophobia).

What triggers migraines?

Common triggers include hormonal changes, fasting, stress, lack of sleep, loud sounds, strong odours, certain foods like cheese or chocolate, and dehydration.

What is a migraine with aura?

A migraine with aura involves neurological symptoms like flashing lights, speech disturbances, and motor weakness that occur before the headache begins and are reversible, lasting less than an hour.

How long can an untreated migraine last?

An untreated migraine attack can last from a few hours to several days.

What treatments are recommended for migraines?

NSAIDs like ibuprofen or paracetamol are often recommended, along with antiemetics to reduce nausea and improve gastrointestinal absorption.

 What lifestyle changes can help manage migraines?

Maintaining a regular sleep cycle, staying hydrated, reducing stress through yoga and meditation, and incorporating exercise into the daily routine can help manage migraine symptoms.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.