What Migraine Is
Migraine is a type of one-sided headache that throbs with moderate to severe intensity. Attacks generally last around 4 hours to 3 days and can severely disrupt daily activities.
Besides head pain, migraine often comes with nausea and vomiting, severe dizziness bordering on fainting, and sensitivity to light, sound, and smells. The headache usually worsens when the sufferer moves, coughs, or sneezes. After an attack subsides, sufferers may feel tired, have trouble concentrating, and experience muscle aches for up to a day.
Migraine Causes and Triggers
The exact cause of migraine is unknown, but experts believe brain chemical, nerve, and blood vessel changes play a role, along with genetic factors or a family history of migraine. Attacks are usually set off by recognizable triggers.
The most commonly reported triggers include emotional stress, hormonal changes such as during menstruation or pregnancy, irregular sleep patterns — both too little and too much sleep — and skipping meals. Certain foods and drinks also frequently trigger attacks, such as chocolate, cheese, MSG-laden or fatty foods, nuts, and caffeinated or alcoholic beverages.
Environmental factors like exposure to bright light, loud sounds, strong smells, weather or air pressure changes, and exhaustion from excessive physical activity can also spark recurring migraine. Recognizing your personal triggers is an important first step to preventing repeat attacks.
How to Relieve a Migraine Attack
When migraine strikes, take painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen at the dose stated on the package. If over-the-counter drugs do not work, consult a doctor, who may prescribe migraine-specific medication such as triptans.
Rest immediately in a dark, quiet room to reduce the light and sound exposure that worsens pain. Applying a cold or warm compress to the head or neck for 15-20 minutes can help reduce inflammation and calm nerves.
Make sure your fluid needs are met, as dehydration can worsen migraine; drink about 8 glasses or 2 liters of water a day. Keep a regular sleep schedule, manage stress with relaxation techniques, and avoid foods and drinks known to be your triggers. If migraine recurs often or feels different than usual, discuss it with a doctor for further treatment.
Watch for Headache Danger Signs
While migraine can usually be managed on your own, some conditions must not be delayed. Go to the nearest hospital ER for a sudden unbearable headache, a headache after injury, or a headache with fever, seizures, stiff neck, confusion, or blurred vision.
Also watch for slurred speech or weakness or paralysis in an arm or one side of the face. These symptoms may signal a serious condition needing immediate medical care. Do not hesitate to see a doctor if you are unsure about your symptoms.
