Migraine | NHS

Migraine: Understanding And Managing The Condition

What is a Migraine?

A migraine is a severe headache that is often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound. It typically manifests as a throbbing pain on one side of the head, though it can affect both sides. Migraines can significantly impact daily life, making it difficult to carry out routine tasks. They can last anywhere from a few hours to several days.

Types of Migraines

Migraines can be classified into several types, with the most common being:

Migraine without Aura

This is the most common type of migraine. It consists of a headache phase with no sensory disturbances beforehand.

Migraine with Aura

These migraines entail warning signs before the actual headache starts. Symptoms of an aura can include visual disturbances, such as flashing lights, zigzag patterns, and even temporary vision loss. Other aura symptoms can involve tingling sensations, difficulty speaking, and muscle weakness.

Chronic Migraines

Chronic migraines are characterized by headaches occurring on 15 or more days per month for more than three months, with at least eight of those headaches classified as migraines.

Causes and Triggers

The exact causes of migraines are still not completely understood, but genetics and environmental factors are believed to play a role. Common triggers include: - **Stress:** Emotional stress can trigger migraines. - **Sleep Patterns:** Both lack of sleep and oversleeping can cause migraines. - **Dietary Factors:** Certain foods and drinks, such as cheese, alcohol, and caffeine, are known triggers. - **Hormonal Changes:** Women often experience migraines related to hormonal changes during their menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing a migraine primarily involves discussing your symptoms and medical history with your GP. Keeping a headache diary can be helpful in identifying patterns and triggers. In some cases, additional tests such as a MRI or CT scan may be recommended to rule out other conditions.

Treatment Options

While there's no cure for migraines, several treatment options can help manage the symptoms and reduce the frequency of attacks: - **Medication:** Over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol, aspirin, and ibuprofen can be effective. Triptans are another common medication used specifically for migraines. - **Lifestyle Changes:** Regular exercise, adequate hydration, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep can help in reducing migraine frequency. - **Avoiding Triggers:** Identifying and avoiding known triggers can prevent the onset of migraines.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you are experiencing frequent or severe migraines that impact your quality of life, it's essential to seek medical advice. Additionally, see your GP if you notice any of the following: - An unusually severe headache that comes on suddenly - A headache accompanied by fever, stiff neck, confusion, or seizures - Persistent headaches after an injury

Living with Migraine

Living with migraines can be challenging, but a combination of lifestyle modifications, medication, and the support of healthcare professionals can help manage the condition effectively. For more information, resources, and support, visit the NHS website or consult with your GP.