WHAT ARE MIGRAINES?

What are Migraines?

Migraines are a recurring kind of headache that leads to moderate to severe pain. The agony is frequently on one side of your head. You may likewise have different manifestations, for example, queasiness and shortcoming, and you might be delicate to sound and light.

What are the causes of migraine?

Experts believe that migraine has a genetic cause, and also several factors that trigger a migraine are listed below:

• Stress

• Alcohol

• Anxiety

• Medicines

• Hormonal changes in women body

• Flashing lights

• Strong smell & loud noise

• Tobacco

• Insufficient sleep

• Sudden changes in weather

• Overuse of medication

• Skipping meals, etc.

Migraines- Who is at Risk?

Migraines can affect anyone, and you are more likely to have a migraine if you are:

1) If you are a woman, as women are three times more likely than men to get a migraine.

2) If you have a family history.

3) If you have any medical conditions, such as anxiety,epilepsy, bipolar disorder, depression, and sleep disorders.

What are the symptoms of Migraines?

Though there are four different phases of migraines, it is not always necessary that one should go through all the stages.

Prodome: This stage starts up to 24 hours before you get the migraine. You will have early signs and symptoms, such as unexplained mood changes, food cravings, fluid retention, uncontrollable yawning, and increased urination.

Aura: In this phase, you might see bright or flashing lights or zig-zag lines, and few may have muscle weakness. Prodome can happen just before or during a migraine.

Headache: Migraine usually starts gradually and then becomes severe that typically causes pulsing pain or throbbing, which is often on a single side of your head. But sometimes you can also have a migraine even without a headache. Few other symptoms include:

1) Increased sensitivity to noise, light, nausea and vomiting.

2) Worsened pain when you cough, move, or sneeze.

Postdrome (following the headache): You may feel weak, confused, and exhausted, after a migraine. This condition can last up to a day.

Migraines are more common in the morning and people often wake up with a migraine. Few have migraines at predictable times, such as on weekends following a stressful week of work or before menstruation.

How are Migraines diagnosed?

To diagnose Migraine, your healthcare provider will:

• Ask about your symptoms

• Take your medical history

• Do a neurological and physical diagnosis

One of the essential parts of diagnosing migraines is to check for other medical conditions which could be causing these symptoms.

How are Migraines treated?

There is no full cure for migraines. Most treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing additional attacks.

If you suffer from frequent or severe migraines, you may need to take medicines to prevent further attacks and it is always suggested to talk with your health care provider for prescribed drug.