Migraine

What is a Migraine?
A migraine is more than just a bad headache. It is a recurring neurological condition that causes intense throbbing or pulsing pain, usually on one side of the head. It is often accompanied by disabling nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound.

Attacks can last for hours to days, often forcing the sufferer to find a dark, quiet place to lie down.

The 4 Stages of a Migraine

Migraines often progress through four distinct stages, though not everyone experiences all of them.

1. Prodrome (Warning Phase)

One or two days before a migraine, you may notice subtle changes:

• Constipation or food cravings.
• Mood changes (Depression to Euphoria).
• Uncontrollable yawning.
• Neck stiffness.

2. Aura (Visual Disturbances)

Occurs before or during the headache. It acts as a warning signal involving the nervous system:

• Visual phenomena: Seeing flashes of light, bright spots, or zigzag shapes.
• Vision loss: Temporary blind spots.
• Sensory changes: Pins and needles in an arm or leg.
• Speech problems: Difficulty speaking clearly (aphasia).

3. Attack (The Headache)

Untreated, this lasts 4 to 72 hours. Symptoms include:

• Pain on one or both sides of the head.
• Pulsing or throbbing pain quality.
• Sensitivity to light, sound, and smells.
• Nausea and vomiting.

4. Postdrome (Recovery)

After the attack, you may feel drained, confused, or "washed out" for up to a day.

⚠️ WHEN TO CALL 911
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• An abrupt, severe headache like a "thunderclap."
• Headache with fever, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, or double vision.
• Headache after a head injury.
• New headache pain if you are older than 50.

Causes & Triggers

Migraines may be caused by changes in the brainstem and its interactions with the trigeminal nerve. Imbalances in brain chemicals, including serotonin, also play a role.

Common Triggers

• Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in estrogen (periods, pregnancy, menopause) often trigger attacks in women.
• Diet: Aged cheeses, salty/processed foods, skipping meals, and additives like Aspartame or MSG.
• Drinks: Alcohol (especially wine) and high caffeine.
• Environment: Weather changes, bright lights, sun glare, or strong smells (perfume).
• Stress & Sleep: High stress or changes in sleep patterns (too much or too little sleep).

Treatment

There is no cure, but medication can manage the condition. Treatment falls into two categories:

1. Acute Treatment (Pain Relief)

Taken as soon as symptoms start to stop the attack:

• Over-the-Counter: Aspirin, Ibuprofen, or Excedrin Migraine (mild attacks).
• Triptans: Prescription drugs (e.g., Sumatriptan) that block pain pathways in the brain.
• Anti-nausea medications: Used if the migraine causes vomiting.

2. Preventive Medication

Taken daily to reduce the frequency of attacks:

• Beta Blockers: Cardiovascular drugs that reduce migraine frequency.
• Antidepressants: Tricyclic antidepressants can affect serotonin levels to prevent headaches.
• Anti-seizure drugs: Such as Topamax.
• Botox: Injections for chronic migraines (15+ days a month).

Complications

• Medication-Overuse Headaches: Taking pain relief more than 10 days a month can actually cause more headaches.
• Serotonin Syndrome: A rare risk when combining Triptans with SSRI antidepressants.
• Chronic Migraine: Having 15 or more headache days a month.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician regarding any medical condition.