What Is Migraine?

Migraine is more than just a headache—it’s a neurological condition that affects around 12% of people worldwide, striking women two to three times more often than men. Beyond throbbing head pain, migraines can bring nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and even temporary sensory disturbances called auras.

Who Gets Migraines?

• Prevalence: About 1 in 8 people worldwide experience migraines.
• Gender: Women are 2–3 times more likely to have migraines, often linked to hormonal fluctuations.
• Family history: Up to 70% of migraine sufferers have relatives who also experience them.

Common Triggers

Migraines often have identifiable triggers. Keeping a headache diary can help you spot patterns. Common triggers include:

• Stress and tension
• Hormonal changes (menstruation, menopause, birth control)
• Sleep disturbances (too little or too much sleep)
• Dietary factors: chocolate, coffee, red wine, aged cheese, MSG
• Weather changes: drops in air pressure, storms, strong smells
• Sensory stimuli: bright or flashing lights, loud noises

How Migraines Happen: Simple Science

1. Brain sensitivity: Your nerves are over-responsive to normal signals
2. Chemical signals: Brain chemicals called neurotransmitters (like serotonin) fluctuate
3. Blood vessel changes: Vessels in the brain may constrict and then dilate, sending pain signals

Sometimes, an aura—visual disturbances like zig-zag lines or blind spots—occurs before the headache phase.

Symptoms of a Migraine Attack

• Throbbing or pulsating pain, usually on one side of the head
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sensitivity to light, sound, and smells
• Aura symptoms: visual changes, tingling in hands or face (in some sufferers)

Diagnosis: When to See a Doctor

• Headaches interfere with daily activities.
• You experience aura or vision changes.
• You’ve had fewer than 5 migraine attacks but are unsure of the cause.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers don’t help, or you need them more than twice a week.

Your doctor may ask about your headache pattern, family history, and conduct a neurological exam. In rare cases, imaging tests rule out other conditions.

Treatment Options

Acute Relief

• Over-the-counter painkillers: ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen (use sparingly).
• Prescription medications: triptans (sumatriptan, rizatriptan) target migraine pathways.
• Anti-nausea drugs: metoclopramide or ondansetron can ease vomiting.

Preventive Therapies

Consider preventive treatment if you have more than 4 attacks per month or headaches last over 12 hours:

• Medications: beta-blockers (propranolol), antidepressants (amitriptyline), anti-seizure drugs (topiramate).
• Botox injections: for chronic migraines (15+ headache days per month).
• New options: CGRP antibodies (erenumab, fremanezumab) block pain signals.

Self-Care and Lifestyle Strategies

• Keep a headache diary: note date, duration, triggers, and relief methods.
• Maintain regular sleep and meals: avoid skipping meals or changing routines.
• Stay hydrated: aim for 8–10 glasses of water daily.
• Manage stress: try relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
• Exercise regularly: low-impact activities such as swimming or walking can reduce attack frequency.

When to Seek Emergency Help

• Sudden, severe headache like a “thunderclap”
• Headache with fever, stiff neck, or confusion
• Headache after a head injury
• Numbness, weakness, or difficulty speaking

Support and Resources

• American Migraine Foundation: https://americanmigrainefoundation.org
• Migraine Trust: https://www.migrainetrust.org
• National Headache Foundation: https://headaches.org

Takeaway

Migraines are common but highly individualized. By recognizing your triggers, adopting healthy habits, and working with your healthcare team, you can reduce attack frequency and severity. Keep track of your experiences, stay informed about new treatments, and remember—you’re not alone in this journey.