Migraine

Introduction

Migraines are the most common type of vascular headaches and result in severe pain on one or both sides of the head, mostly around the temples or behind one eye or ear. Besides pain a person may experience nausea, vomiting and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. In some cases a sensory warning sign (aura), such as flashes of light, blind spots or tingling in one arm or leg, may precede or accompany the onset of a migraine headache. Migraines can occur at anytime, but they typically start in the morning and can last anywhere from several hours to several days.

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Signs and Symptoms

Migraines can be divided into several different types, but classic and common migraines are the two most common. While both share similar symptoms, classic migraines are characterized by an aura before the migraine begins. Common aura signs include the following:

• Visual disturbances, such as flashing lights (stars), zigzag lines or blind spots
• Tingling sensations in one arm or leg
• While rare, experiencing weakness or speech problems

Whether or not a person experiences an aura, other signs may occur several hours or days before a migraine starts:

• Irritability or depression
• Drowsiness
• Cravings for sweets
• Thirst
• Feelings of elation or intense energy

Migraines can range from dull to severe, but a typical migraine attack results in some or all of the following symptoms:

• Moderate to severe pain on one or both sides of the head
• Throbbing, pounding or pulsating head pain
• Fatigue
• Extreme sensitivity to light and sound
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• Pain that worsens with physical activity

Even after a migraine has subsided, some symptoms may still linger:

• Neck pain and scalp tenderness
• Increased need for sleep
• Feeling mentally exhausted or dull

Causes

While researchers are still studying the cause of migraine headaches, the following factors are common among people who experience migraines:

• Are between the ages of 15 and 55
• Have a family history of migraine headaches
• Are female; women are more affected by migraines than men
• Have less severe and frequent migraines with age

Treatment and Triggers

Although doctors are still searching for a cure, various medications can be used to help control migraine pain; they can either be taken prophylactically (every day to reduce the severity and frequency of possible attacks) or abortively (once the headache begins). Lifestyle changes can also be used to help prevent migraine headaches, especially avoiding any trigger that may cause an attack. Listed below are some common triggers:

• Allergic reactions
• Bright lights, loud noises and certain odors or perfumes
• Physical or emotional stress
• Skipping meals
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Smoking or exposure to smoke
• Alcohol
• Menstrual cycle fluctuations and birth control pills
• Tension headaches
• Foods containing tyramine (red wine, aged cheese, smoked fish, chicken livers, figs and some beans), monosodium glutamate (MSG) or nitrates (like bacon, hot dogs and salami)
• Other foods such as chocolate, nuts, peanut butter, avocado, banana, citrus, onions, dairy products and fermented or pickled foods

Other lifestyle changes, such as personal and family counseling, stress management and relaxation therapy, may also be recommended.

If you have been experiencing migraine pain, talk to your doctor to find out which treatment options are best for you.