Migraine

Migraines are a prevalent neurological condition affecting millions worldwide. They’re not just headaches; migraines come with a range of symptoms that can severely impact daily life. From visual disturbances to severe pain and vomiting, migraine symptoms can vary widely between individuals.

What Is a Migraine?

A migraine is a complex neurological disorder characterized by recurring episodes of moderate to severe headaches, often accompanied by additional symptoms. Unlike ordinary headaches, migraines are often linked to changes in the brain’s activity and involve specific triggers and phases.

Migraine Types

1. Migraine with Aura: Includes sensory disturbances like flashing lights or tingling sensations before the headache begins.
2. Migraine without Aura: The most common type, characterized by intense headache without warning signs.
3. Chronic Migraines: Occurring 15 or more days per month, significantly affecting quality of life.

How to tell the difference between a headache and a migraine?

Migraines often include nausea, aura, or sensitivity to light and sound.

What Are the 4 Stages of a Migraine? Migraine Symptoms

Migraines typically progress through four distinct stages, though not everyone experiences all of them. Understanding these stages and migraine symptoms can help individuals recognize and manage their migraines effectively. 

1. Prodrome: Early Warning Signs

The prodrome phase begins hours or even days before the headache itself. It includes subtle signs that may indicate a migraine is on its way. Common symptoms include:

• Mood changes, such as irritability, anxiety, or euphoria.
• Physical signs like neck stiffness, frequent yawning, and fatigue.
• Changes in appetite, including food cravings or loss of appetite. 

Early recognition of these signs can help individuals take preventive measures, such as avoiding triggers or taking medication.

2. Aura: Visual or Sensory Disturbances

The aura phase involves temporary neurological symptoms that typically last 20 to 60 minutes. Common symptoms include:

• Visual disturbances, such as flashing lights, zigzag lines, or blind spots (migraine symptoms eyes).
• Sensory changes like tingling or numbness in the hands, arms, or face.
• Speech difficulties, such as slurred or incoherent speech. 

Aura symptoms serve as a clear warning that the headache phase is imminent, offering time to prepare or intervene.

3. Headache Attack: Intensity and Progression

The headache phase is the most debilitating and can last anywhere from 4 to 72 hours. Symptoms include:

• Severe, throbbing pain often concentrated on one side of the head but may shift or affect both sides.
• Nausea and vomiting, which can increase discomfort.
• Heightened sensitivity to light, sound, and smells (migraine headache symptoms). 

Managing this phase often requires specific medications or strategies to alleviate the intense pain and accompanying symptoms.

4. Postdrome: After-Effects & Recovery Phase

Once the headache subsides, the postdrome phase begins. Often referred to as the “migraine hangover,” this phase can last up to 24 hours. Symptoms include:

• Fatigue and a general sense of being unwell.
• Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly.

Residual head discomfort and mood swings, ranging from depression to euphoria. 

Which part of the head is affected by migraines?

Typically, one side of the head, though it can shift or affect both sides.

Is Migraine a Serious Problem?

Migraines are not typically life-threatening but can significantly affect quality of life. Chronic migraines may increase the risk of anxiety and depression.

How Long Does a Migraine Last?

Migraine episodes can last anywhere from 4 to 72 hours, depending on the severity and treatment.

What Can Be Mistaken for a Migraine?

Certain conditions can be mistaken for migraines due to overlapping symptoms. Tension headaches, for instance, are often less intense and do not involve aura or neurological signs. Cluster headaches, on the other hand, are characterized by short, severe pain around or behind one eye, often accompanied by nasal congestion or watery eyes. Sinus headaches, frequently misdiagnosed as migraines, typically cause facial pressure, nasal congestion, and worsening pain when bending forward. 

When to Seek Medical Attention for Migraines

Migraines can range from manageable to debilitating. Knowing when to seek help is essential.

When to Worry About Migraines?

• Sudden onset of severe headaches.
• Headaches that worsen over time.
• Neurological symptoms like weakness or confusion.

When should you go to the ER for a migraine?

• Thunderclap headaches, described as the “worst ever.”
• Persistent vomiting or severe dehydration.
• Signs of stroke, such as slurred speech or vision loss.

What Causes Migraines?

The exact cause of migraines isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to involve a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Changes in brain activity affecting blood flow and nerve signaling are thought to trigger migraines. These triggers can vary widely among individuals, making it crucial to identify personal factors that contribute to their occurrence.

What causes migraines?

Often migraines are triggered by: 

• Stress: High-stress levels can lead to tension and hormonal shifts, which often act as a precursor to migraines.
• Lack of Sleep: Irregular sleep patterns or insufficient rest can disrupt brain function, increasing susceptibility to migraines.
• Environmental Factors: Bright lights, loud noises, strong odors, and even weather changes like barometric pressure drops are common triggers.
• Physical Strain: Overexertion, poor posture, or prolonged use of digital screens can contribute to migraines.
• Medications: Overuse of pain relief medications may lead to rebound headaches, intensifying migraine episodes.
• Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake can reduce blood flow to the brain, triggering migraines and worsening symptoms.

What Foods Trigger Migraines?

Certain foods and beverages are well-known migraine triggers. These include:

• Aged Cheeses: Containing tyramine, a compound linked to migraines.
• Processed Meats: Nitrates and nitrites in deli meats and sausages can trigger headaches.
• Caffeine: Both excessive intake and withdrawal from caffeine can provoke migraines.
• Alcohol: Particularly red wine, which contains tannins and histamines.
• Artificial Additives: MSG (monosodium glutamate), artificial sweeteners like aspartame, and food dyes are common culprits.
• Skips in Meals: Fasting or irregular eating habits can also act as a trigger by lowering blood sugar levels.

Being aware of these migraine triggers and maintaining a food diary can help individuals identify and avoid specific items that provoke their migraines.

What Causes Migraines in Females?

Hormonal fluctuations are one of the primary causes of migraines in females. Estrogen levels, which fluctuate during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can significantly influence the frequency and severity of migraines. Many women report migraines occurring just before or during their periods [1]. Additionally, the use of hormonal contraceptives or hormone replacement therapies can exacerbate or sometimes help regulate migraines, depending on the individual [2].

Risk Factors for Migraines

Migraines often occur due to a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. If you have a family history of migraines, your risk of developing them is significantly higher. Studies suggest that certain genes can make individuals more sensitive to triggers that provoke migraines. 

• Women, in particular, are more likely to experience migraines due to hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause.
• Environmental factors also play a significant role. High levels of stress, irregular sleep patterns, and changes in weather conditions can increase susceptibility. 
• Occupations requiring prolonged screen time, physical exertion, or exposure to loud environments can also elevate the risk of developing migraines. 
• Individuals prone to dehydration, poor posture, or frequent dietary triggers, such as caffeine or processed foods, may notice an increase in migraine episodes.

If you’re experiencing persistent or severe migraine symptoms, consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and personalized treatment can improve your quality of life. Track your symptoms, avoid triggers, and explore treatment options to regain control over your daily life. Moore MyoWorx Clinic offers specialized migraine treatment, focusing on personalized therapy for long-term relief.

References:

1. American Migraine Foundation: “Hormonal and Menstrual Migraine: Symptoms and Treatment”.
2. Migraine Research Foundation: “Menstrual Migraine”.