Migraine

Contrary to popular belief, migraines are not simply bad headaches. Rather, migraine is a specific neurological disease that can suddenly cause a person to suffer from a number of unpleasant symptoms (the most obvious of which is a headache).

Migraine headaches are the second most common form of headaches (tension headaches, otherwise known as common headaches, are first). Migraine headaches can be quite debilitating. They are characterized by throbbing pain, which is often felt in the temples and sometimes on only one side of the head. The discomfort usually lasts for a few hours, but it can persist for days.

Prior to the headache, it’s common for a person to experience a number of other symptoms. These can include nausea, vomiting and difficulty with vision, such as visual disturbances (e.g., seeing bright, wavy shapes), sensitivity to light and tunnel vision. These warning signs are referred to as an aura.

There is no way to cure migraines, but they can be effectively treated. Standard treatment options include painkillers and sedatives. Alternative treatments include relaxation exercises and hypnosis.

5 Things You Need to Know

  1. Nearly 30 million Americans report that they have experienced at least one episode of migraine in the past year. For most, it is simply a temporary annoyance.
  2. Migraine headaches are three times more likely to occur in women than men. Over 18 percent of women and 6 percent of men are affected.
  3. You are far more likely to suffer from migraine headaches if someone in your immediate family has a history of migraine.
  4. Migraine headaches are often caused by what doctors refer to as triggers. Certain foods can be triggers; these include red wine, caffeinated beverages, chocolate and processed foods containing MSG. Other potential triggers include stress, physical activity, a lack of sleep and hormonal changes.
  5. Migraine headaches without an aura are more common than migraine headaches with an aura.

3 Questions You Need to Ask Your Doctor

  1. How can I figure out what my triggers are?
  2. Do I need to use drugs to treat my migraines?
  3. How can I change my lifestyle to reduce my chance of suffering from migraine?

Also Known As: Severe headaches, megrim, headache, vascular headache, sick headache

Your health is too important to take lightly. The information on this website is intended to start you down the path to living well, but it’s only just the beginning.

Each of us is unique, and we all deserve the individual attention that only a health care professional can provide. So do what’s in your best interest - take the next step and find doctors or surgeons in your area today.