Migraines are a common neurological condition, affecting people of all ages, backgrounds, and lifestyles. A migraine is a distinct health condition with its own set of features, phases, and potential causes. Migraines can interfere with work, school, family responsibilities, and daily routines; they tend to occur more frequently in women than in men.
What Are Migraines?
A migraine is a recurring type of headache that often produces moderate to severe pain. The pain is often described as throbbing, and it commonly affects one side of the head, although it can occur on both sides. An untreated migraine attack may last anywhere from a few hours to several days. Migraines often involve symptoms beyond head pain, including:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fatigue or difficulty concentrating
Many migraine attacks progress through a series of phases, but not every person experiences each one. Healthcare providers can classify migraines as occurring with aura or without aura. When headaches occur on 15 or more days per month, with migraine features, the condition may be classified as chronic migraine.
How Are They Managed?
Migraine management generally focuses on identifying patterns and making practical adjustments to daily habits. Triggers vary from person to person, so a management approach that suits one individual may not suit another. There are some lifestyle habits that individuals find helpful, including:
- Maintaining a Regular Sleep Schedule: Going to bed and waking up at consistent times
- Eating at Regular Intervals: Avoiding long gaps between meals
- Staying Hydrated: Drinking adequate water throughout the day
- Exercising Regularly: Engaging in moderate physical activity, as approved by a healthcare provider
- Limiting Known Triggers: Reducing exposure to specific foods, drinks, or environmental factors linked to past attacks
Comfort measures do not replace medical care, but they may be used alongside a treatment plan.
How Are They Medically Treated?
Acute treatment is taken at the onset of a migraine attack to help relieve symptoms. A provider may discuss several options depending on your situation. These can include pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as prescription medications. Your provider is able to offer guidance on how often these medications should be used, and this may help you get the most benefit while avoiding complications.
Preventive treatment is intended to reduce the frequency, duration, or severity of attacks; providers can suggest preventive options for individuals who experience frequent migraines. For chronic migraine, some providers may recommend botulinum toxin injections administered at regular intervals. A provider can explain which treatments will be suitable for a particular situation.
Confer With a Medical Professional
A care provider is able to evaluate headache symptoms, and they refer patients to a neurologist when additional expertise is appropriate. These specialists focus on disorders of the brain and nervous system and perform assessments, which may include a neurological exam or imaging studies when indicated. Speaking with a medical professional can help individuals gain a clearer understanding of their symptoms and explore management and treatment options suited to their needs.
