Understanding Migraines

Migraine is an intense and disabling recurring headache that involves blood vessels, nerves and brain chemicals. They are usually accompanied by hypersensitivity to light and sound, and nausea.

There are two types of migraines: migraine occurring with an aura ("classic") and migraine occurring without an aura ("common"). Migraines may occur several times a week or once every couple of years. Some people's migraines are so severe that they are unable to go about their everyday routine.

Causes

The cause of migraines is unknown. It is suspected that environmental triggers and genetic predisposition may cause them. It is possible that these triggers cause the nervous system to react by conducting electrical activity that spreads across the brain. This activity leads to the release of brain chemicals that make blood vessels swell and become leaky. Scientists believe this inflammatory process cause pain and other symptoms of a migraine.

Three-fourths of adult migraine suffers are female. There are equal numbers of sufferers in pre-pubertal boys and girls. This reveals a connection to hormonal cycling and hormonal-related causes and triggers.

Diagnosis

Migraines tend to occur in four phases:

A Warning. There may be a warning hours or days before the headache. Symptoms include: a change in mood, fatigue, bloating, tense muscles, yawning and food craving.

An Aura. An aura may precede the headache. It usually lasts about 15 to 30 minutes and may produce the following sensations: flashing lights or spots, temporary or partial loss of vision, speech difficulties, weakness in an arm or leg, numbness or tingling in the face and hands, restlessness and confusing.

The Migraine Headache. The pain starts within an hour of the aura ending. Symptoms include: intense throbbing pain on one side or both sides of head, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, sensitivity to light or sound, sore or achy muscles, and lightheadedness or dizziness.

A Post-headache Period. Migraines usually last from four to 72 hours. After the headache, you may experience: food intolerances or cravings, trouble concentrating, fatigue, and sore muscles.

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam and neurological exam will be performed.

Treatment

Treatment options include:

Medications. Taken at the start of the headache, drugs may ease or stop the pain. Over-the-counter pain pills may ease mild symptoms. Prescription medications will quiet nerve pathways, reduce inflammation and stimulate receptors for the brain hormone serotonin. Preventive drugs may be taken everyday which prevent migraines for people suffering from frequent migraines.

Self Care During the Migraine. Apply cold compresses to painful areas of your head, lie in a dark room, massage scalp and temples and try to fall asleep.

Lifestyle Changes. Certain things you do during your day will help lessen migraines: learn stress-management and relaxation techniques, exercise regularly, avoid foods that trigger migraines, keep a diary to help identify your triggers and what helps relieve them and do not change your regular sleep pattern on the weekend or during vacation.

Prevention. Suggestions include: maintain regular sleep patterns, learn stress-management techniques, do not skip meals, avoid red wine and other alcohol, exercise regularly and avoid foods known to trigger migraines (such as yogurt, caffeine and canned soup).

Resources:

http://headache.upmc.com/MigraineHeadache/Default.htm

http://headache.upmc.com/MigraineHeadache/Overview.htm