A Migraine is a neurological condition characterized by recurrent episodes of severe headache, often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, sound, or smells, and sometimes visual disturbances known as auras. Migraine headaches can be debilitating and can last anywhere from a few hours to several days.
There are two main types of migraine:
- Migraine without aura: This is the most common type, where the headache occurs without preceding neurological symptoms (auras).
- Migraine with aura: This type involves specific neurological symptoms that usually precede the headache. These can include visual disturbances (like seeing flashing lights or blind spots), sensory changes (such as tingling sensations in the limbs), or difficulty speaking.
The exact cause of migraines is not fully understood, but they are believed to involve abnormal brain activity affecting nerve signals, blood vessels, and chemicals in the brain. Triggers for migraines can vary widely between individuals and may include stress, hormonal changes, certain foods, lack of sleep, and environmental factors.
Treatment for migraines typically involves managing symptoms during an attack and preventing future episodes. This can include pain-relieving medications (such as NSAIDs or triptans), medications to prevent migraines (such as beta-blockers or antidepressants), lifestyle modifications, and identifying and avoiding triggers.