Migraine is not just a headache. It is a neurological complaint of intense, throbbing pain often on one side of the head along with nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light, sound or even smell.
Millions of people have migraines worldwide and it is one of the leading causes of disability among adults.
Migraines can last from hours to three days and are so important in everyday life, work and the social aspect of life. There’s never a cure but the disease can be treated and we need to be preventive.
What causes Migraine
Migraine has not yet been completely identified, but researchers believe it is caused by brain activity that disrupts nerve signals, blood vessels and chemicals in the brain and may be connected to abnormal brain activity.
Several factors can trigger a migraine attack such as
- Stress and anxiety
- Not much sleep or irregular sleep patterns
- Hormonal shifts during menstruation or fasting or dehydration
- Bright lights or loud noises
- Really strong smells like perfumes or chemicals
- Weather changes
- Excessive screen time
- Some foods such as aged cheese, chocolate, processed meat, alcohol and foods containing MSG.
Genetics is also of interest. People with a family history of migraines are more likely to develop the condition.
Common Symptoms
The migraine symptoms are different for different people. Some people have warning signs before the headache starts an aura, for example.
Common symptoms include:
- Severe throbbing headache
- Pain on one or both sides of the head
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Fatigue after the attack
Measures to prevent Migraine
Migraines can be prevented but good habit patterns can prevent them.
- Stay hydrated: drink enough water throughout the day.
- Sufficient sleep: Get 7-9 hours of good sleep a night.
- We all have to eat healthy meals: Don’t skip meals and recognize the foods that cause your migraines.
- Manage stress: Yoga, meditation, breathing exercises or regular physical activity.
- Limit screen time: If you have to use a computer or smartphone, take breaks.
- We should exercise regularly: Moderate exercise is good for health and may decrease migraine frequency.
- Keep a migraine diary: Recording symptoms and triggers helps to see patterns and avoid future attacks.
When should you go to the doctor
Do seek medical attention if severe migraines are common and worsen over time or sudden severe pain, confusion, weakness, vision loss or difficulty speaking occur. Medications for pain relief, preventive therapy, or lifestyle changes are suggested to help with the severity of migraines by healthcare providers.
The Bottom Line
Migraine is a manageable condition when early diagnosis and treatment is made.
Finding one’s own trigger, keeping good habits in check and going to medical attention when one needs help is a gamechanger in quality of life.
