Migraine headaches are very common, affecting about 15% of the population. Migraines are 3 times more prevalent in women, likely due to hormonal differences. But 1 in 16 men are affected by migraines. Migraines also occur in teenagers and children. These headaches can be debilitating when they occur. Let’s talk more about this important topic.
What is a Migraine Headache?
A migraine is more than a bad headache. A migraine headache is a cascade of electrical, chemical, and vascular events that takes place across your brain over hours or even days, involving regions responsible for pain processing, sensory filtering, and basic functions like sleep and appetite. Migraine headaches can last anywhere from 4 to 72 hours if untreated.What Causes Migraine Headaches?
The headache itself seems to be caused by a complex interaction between the brainstem and the trigeminal nerve (one of the important cranial nerves), as well as changes in brain chemicals, including serotonin.
But the true underlying cause, and why some people get them and others don’t, is not fully understood. Although, there is evidence that genetics and environmental factors play a role.
What are the Symptoms of a Migraine Headache?
Symptoms of migraines vary a bit from one person to another, but common symptoms include:
- Severe pain, usually (but not always) on one side of the head
- Pain that feels like it is throbbing or pulsing
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light, sound, movement, or touch
- Visual disturbances
What is a Migraine Aura?
About one-third of people with migraines experience an aura, which is a “warning period” of temporary neurological symptoms that occur before a headache, or sometimes during the headache. Auras usually last anywhere from 5 to 60 minutes and resolve completely.
Symptoms of an aura may include:
- Visual disturbances – such as seeing flashing lights or zigzag lines, or blind spots
- Tingling
- Difficulty speaking
Who is at Risk for Migraine Headaches?
Migraine can affect anyone, but certain factors increase risk, including:
- Family history of migraine headaches
- Age – Migraines often begin in adolescence or young adulthood.
- Sex – Women are about 3 times more likely to experience migraines, likely due to hormonal fluctuations.
What are Migraine Triggers?
In those who have, or are at risk for migraines, there are things that can trigger a headache. One person may have different triggers than another. Here are some of the common triggers:
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Dehydration
- Skipped meals
- Certain foods – such as aged cheeses, processed meats, some preservatives
- Alcohol – especially red wine
- Caffeine
- Weather or barometric changes
- Strong sensory stimuli
Next week, we will talk more about how migraines are diagnosed, how they are treated, and what you can do to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks.
If you have any questions about migraine headaches, please log into your account and send us your question. We are here to help.
Dr. Anita Bennett MD – Health Tip Content Editor