Migraine
What is a Migraine?
A migraine is a chronic neurological disorder that causes recurrent headaches ranging from moderate to severe intensity. It is often one-sided and throbbing and can last from a few hours to several days. Migraines can significantly impact daily activities and are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
Types of Migraine
- Migraine with aura (Classic Migraine) – Includes sensory disturbances like visual changes, tingling sensations, or difficulty speaking.
- Migraine without aura (Common Migraine) – A headache without sensory symptoms before its onset.
- Chronic Migraine – Occurs 15 or more days per month for at least three months.
- Menstrual Migraine – Triggered by hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle.
- Vestibular Migraine – Causes dizziness, balance problems, and vertigo.
- Ophthalmic Migraine – Affects vision and may cause temporary blindness in one eye.
Causes and Triggers of Migraine
While the exact cause of migraines is unknown, common triggers include:
- Genetic and hormonal factors (more common in women due to estrogen fluctuations)
- Gastric issues such as acidity and indigestion
- Hunger and dehydration
- Alcohol and caffeine consumption
- Bright lights, glare, loud noises, or strong odors
- Stress, anxiety, and tension
- Physical exertion and lack of sleep
- Changes in weather or altitude
- Certain foods (processed foods, chocolate, aged cheese, artificial sweeteners)
Symptoms of Migraine (4 Phases)
Migraines progress in four distinct phases, but not everyone experiences all phases:
1. Prodrome Phase (Early Warning Signs)
- Mood changes (irritability, depression, euphoria)
- Food cravings or loss of appetite
- Neck stiffness and fatigue
- Frequent yawning and increased urination
2. Aura Phase (Sensory Disturbances)
- Blurred vision or blind spots
- Flashing lights, zigzag lines, or tunnel vision
- Numbness or tingling in hands and face
- Difficulty in speaking and concentration
- Usually lasts 5 minutes to an hour
3. Pain Phase (Migraine Attack)
- Severe, throbbing headache, usually on one side of the head
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia), sound (phonophobia), and smells
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness and fatigue
- Can last from 4 to 72 hours
4. Postdrome Phase (Recovery)
- Weakness, dizziness, and fatigue
- Mood changes (depression or euphoria)
- Confusion and difficulty concentrating
Diagnosis of Migraine
- Clinical history and symptom analysis
- Physical and neurological examination
- Neuroimaging (CT scan or MRI) to rule out other conditions like brain tumors or stroke
Treatment for Migraine
1. Medications for Acute Migraine Relief
- Mild analgesics (Ibuprofen, Paracetamol) for mild attacks
- Triptans (Sumatriptan, Rizatriptan) to reduce headache severity
- Ergotamines for prolonged migraines
- Anti-nausea medications (Metoclopramide, Domperidone)
2. Preventive Treatment (for Chronic Migraines)
- Beta-blockers (Propranolol, Metoprolol) to reduce frequency
- Antidepressants (Amitriptyline, Venlafaxine) for stress-related migraines
- Anticonvulsants (Topiramate, Valproate) to control nerve signals
- CGRP inhibitors (Erenumab, Fremanezumab) for severe cases
3. Lifestyle Modifications to Prevent Migraines
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule
- Eat balanced meals on time to avoid hunger-triggered migraines
- Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and caffeine
- Reduce stress with relaxation techniques (yoga, meditation)
- Limit screen time and exposure to bright lights
When to See a Doctor?
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Frequent or worsening migraines
- Sudden, severe headaches
- Migraine attacks lasting more than 72 hours
- Neurological symptoms (vision loss, weakness, slurred speech)
Early diagnosis and proper treatment can help manage migraines effectively. If you suffer from frequent migraines, consult Meraki ent international Hospital for a personalized treatment plan.
