More than just a typical headache, migraine is a neurological disorder that causes significant discomfort. Along with head pain, most people also experience additional symptoms that can disrupt their daily lives. In the majority of cases, migraines are not associated with long-term ill-effects. However, the severity of the condition means that it can be very debilitating. With the right treatment, both the symptoms and frequency can be well managed.
Migraine symptoms typically occur in four phases, although not every person who experiences them will progress through all four. These phases include:
No one is exactly sure what causes migraines, although people with a family history tend to have a higher risk. Women are also more likely to experience the condition, and symptoms are usually most prevalent between the ages of 10 and 40.
Many people with the condition also have “triggers”, which are circumstances that increase the chance of experiencing a migraine. Common triggers include:
A doctor can assess your symptoms, family history, and frequency of migraine symptoms. They may ask you to keep a migraine journal to better understand the symptoms and their onset. It may be necessary to rule out other conditions that cause similar symptoms via blood testing and diagnostic imaging.
Once a diagnosis has been made, your doctor can provide medication to stop future attacks from occurring. They will also provide medicine to control pain and other symptoms when they occur.
Patients are also advised to avoid known triggers and make certain changes to their lifestyles to reduce migraine occurrence. Reducing daily stress via relaxation techniques is often effective. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen is also beneficial, as is getting enough sleep each night.