Migraine is a type of headache that happens often and causes severe pain. It can also come with other symptoms. It’s a neurological issue that can seriously affect how you feel day-to-day.
What are symptoms for Migraine?
- Aura (for some people)
- Visual disturbances like flashing lights, blind spots, or zigzag lines.
- Sensory changes such as tingling or numbness in the face or extremities.
- Difficulty speaking or confusion.
- Headache Pain
- Typically throbbing or pulsating pain on one side of the head.
- Can be moderate to severe and may worsen with physical activity.
- Pain may shift from one side to the other or affect both sides.
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Feeling nauseous or actually vomiting is common during an attack.
- Sensitivity to Light and Sound
- Increased sensitivity to bright lights and loud noises.
- May seek a dark, quiet room to alleviate symptoms.
- Other Symptoms
- Dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Fatigue or feeling drained after the headache subsides.
- Difficulty concentrating or mental fog.
What are the most common triggers?
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in estrogen levels, such as during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can trigger migraines.
- Stress: Emotional or physical stress is a frequent migraine trigger.
- Dietary Factors: Certain foods and drinks, such as aged cheeses, processed meats, caffeine, alcohol, and foods containing MSG or nitrates, can trigger migraines.
- Sleep Patterns: Irregular sleep schedules or lack of sleep can be a trigger.
- Environmental Factors: Bright lights, loud noises, strong smells, or changes in weather can induce migraines.
- Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can lead to migraines.
- Medications: Some medications, including oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy, may trigger migraines.
- Physical Exertion: Intense physical activity or exercise can sometimes lead to migraines.
- Skipping Meals: Irregular eating patterns or skipping meals can lead to migraines due to changes in blood sugar levels.
- Weather Changes: Rapid changes in weather, humidity, or barometric pressure can trigger migraines in some people.
- Sensory Overload: Exposure to strong lights, flickering screens, or loud sounds can trigger migraines.
- Travel: Changes in routine, time zones, or long journeys can be triggers for some individuals.
- Strong Emotions: Intense emotions like anxiety, depression, or excitement can precipitate migraines.
- Certain Foods Additives: Preservatives and artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, may trigger migraines in some people.
- Poor Posture: Long periods of poor posture, especially while working at a desk, can contribute to migraines.
- Tobacco Smoke: Exposure to cigarette smoke or other environmental pollutants can be a trigger.
- Medication Withdrawal: Reducing or stopping certain medications abruptly can lead to migraines.
- Physical Injury: Head or neck injuries, including whiplash or tension in the neck, can trigger migraines.
What are complications for severe Migraine?
- Chronic Migraine
- Occurs when migraines happen 15 or more days a month for more than three months.
- Can lead to significant impairment in daily functioning.
- Migrainous Stroke
- In rare cases, severe migraines can lead to a condition called “migraine with aura,” which is associated with a higher risk of stroke, especially in young women.
- Medication Overuse Headache
- Frequent use of pain relief medications can lead to rebound headaches, where the headache becomes more frequent and severe.
- Depression and Anxiety
- Chronic migraines can contribute to the development of mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, due to the impact on quality of life.
- Disability and Reduced Quality of Life
- Frequent or severe migraines can lead to significant disability, affecting work, social activities, and overall quality of life.
If you experience migraines with complications or have concerns about the impact on your daily life, it’s important to seek medical advice for proper management and treatment.
