Migraines: Causes & Symptoms

A migraine is a neurological condition that causes different of symptoms, most prominently a throbbing headache on one side of the head. Migraines are a type of recurring headache that can cause moderate to severe pain, often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, and sensitivity to sound.

Causes of Migraines:

• Genetics: Family history plays a critical role. If your parents or close relatives have a history of migraines, you may be more inclined to them.
• Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones, especially estrogen, can trigger migraines. Numerous women experience migraines around their menstrual cycles.
• Triggers in Diet: Certain foods and beverages, such as aged cheeses, processed meats, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol, can trigger migraines in susceptible individuals.
• Stress: Emotional stress and anxiety are well-known triggers. Migraine can develop during stressful periods or after stress subsides (the “let-down” effect).
• Sensory Stimuli: Bright lights, loud noises, strong smells, and even flickering screens can initiate migraines in some individuals.
• Sleep Disruptions: Both lack of sleep and excessive sleep can contribute to migraines. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule is important.
• Weather Changes: Drastic changes in weather, especially changes in barometric pressure, have been linked to migraine for some people.
• Physical Exertion: Intense physical activity or sudden exertion can trigger migraine, especially in those who are not accustomed to such activities.
• Medications: Certain medications, including hormonal treatments and vasodilators, can increase the risk of migraines.
• Dehydration and Hunger: Skipping meals or not drinking enough water can lead to migraines in some individuals.
• Caffeine: While some people find relief from migraines by consuming caffeine, excessive consumption or sudden withdrawal can trigger them.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to smoke, strong odors, and other environmental pollutants can be migraine triggers.

Symptoms of Migraines:

• Throbbing Headache: Migraines often involve a moderate to severe throbbing or pulsating pain, usually on one side of the head, although it can affect both sides.
• Sensitivity to Light (Photophobia): Many people with migraine experience heightened sensitivity to light. Exposure to bright lights can worsen the pain or trigger other symptoms.
• Sensitivity to Sound (Phonophobia): Similar to light sensitivity, sounds can become more intense and bothersome during a migraine attack.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Migraines frequently cause feelings of nausea, and vomiting can sometimes accompany the headache.
• Aura: Some people experience visual or sensory disturbances before or during a migraine. Visual auras might involve seeing flashes of light, zigzag lines, or blind spots. Sensory auras can include tingling or numbness in the face or hands.
• Visual Disturbances: In addition to auras, migraine can cause temporary vision changes such as blurred vision or seeing spots.
• Difficulty Concentrating: Migraine attacks can impair cognitive function, making it challenging to focus, think clearly, or make decisions.
• Fatigue: After a migraine attack subsides, individuals often feel exhausted and drained, experiencing a postdrome phase known as a “migraine hangover.”
• Mood Changes: Migraines can lead to mood swings, irritability, and feelings of depression or anxiety, both during and after the attack.
• Neck Stiffness: Some people experience neck stiffness or muscle tension during a migraine episode.
• Pain Aggravation with Activity: Physical activity, even routine movements, can intensify the pain during a migraine attack.
• Changes in Appetite: Migraines can lead to changes in appetite, including reduced food intake due to nausea.
• Aura and Sensory Symptoms: Apart from visual auras, some individuals may experience other sensory auras, such as tingling or numbness in the face or hands.

Treatment:

It’s vital to consult a medical professional prior to beginning any new treatment, particularly if you have a history of migraines or other medical conditions. Treatment plans should be tailored to your individual needs and medical history.