What is a Migraine?
A migraine is a type of severe headache marked by intense, throbbing pain, usually felt on one side of the head.
This debilitating discomfort can persist for four hours or even several days
Migraines can greatly interfere with personal and social commitments, negatively impacting overall quality of life.
Fortunately, there are effective treatments available to help manage migraine symptoms and decrease their frequency.
What are the Types of Migraines?
There are different types of migraines, with the most common categories being:
- Migraine with Aura: It involves sensory warnings, including visual disturbances or tingling sensations, that occur before the onset of the headache. The aura can last from five minutes to an hour and may accompany the headache itself.
- Migraine without Aura: This is the most prevalent type of migraine, occurring without any preceding symptoms.
- Chronic Migraine: This type occurs 15 or more days per month and can be more challenging to manage.
- Hemiplegic Migraine: This is a rare type of migraine that leads to temporary paralysis or weakness on one side of the body, often resembling stroke symptoms.
- Menstrual Migraine: These migraines are associated with hormonal fluctuations during menstruation and generally occur around the onset of a woman’s period.
- Silent Migraine: Also known as a “migraine without headache,” this type involves aura symptoms but no accompanying headache.
- Retinal Migraine: This form can cause temporary vision loss or disturbances in one eye.
What Triggers Migraines?
Migraine triggers can vary widely among individuals.
Common triggers include:
- Stress and Hormonal Changes: Emotional stress and fluctuations in hormones, particularly in women, can precipitate migraines.
- Certain Foods: Common dietary triggers include aged cheese, chocolate, alcohol, and food additives like nitrates and MSG.
- Skipping Meals or Dehydration: Fasting or not drinking enough fluids can lead to migraine onset.
- Environmental Factors: Bright lights, loud noises, strong odors, and weather changes can also trigger migraines.
- Sleep Disturbances: Disrupted sleep patterns or insufficient sleep can heighten the chances of experiencing migraine attacks.
Maintaining a migraine diary can assist individuals in recognizing their unique triggers and formulating effective strategies for managing their condition.
How are Migraines Diagnosed and Treated?
Your doctor diagnoses migraines through a comprehensive physical and neurological examination, alongside a detailed medical and family history.
They may also conduct imaging tests, such as CT scans or MRIs, to rule out other potential causes of headaches.
Treatment options for migraines vary based on their severity and frequency.
These may include:
- Medications: Pain relievers can be effective for mild to moderate symptoms. Prescription medications may be recommended for more severe cases.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Identifying and avoiding known triggers, along with maintaining a regular eating and sleeping schedule, can significantly reduce migraine frequency.
- Alternative Remedies: Techniques such as yoga, acupuncture, and biofeedback have shown promise in helping manage migraine symptoms.
When to See your doctor?
It is essential to consult your doctor if you experience:
- New or worsening migraine symptoms
- Side effects from treatments
- Severe headaches that are unusually intense or accompanied by neurological symptoms such as confusion, balance issues, or vision disturbances.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with migraines, don’t allow them to dictate your life. Reach out to Dr. Pravallika Dutta Hospital today for professional advice and personalized treatment options! Begin your journey toward better relief and quality of life with us!
