Migraine

A migraine is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, intense headaches, usually affecting one side of the head, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, sound, or smells. Migraines can last from a few hours to several days and may significantly impact daily life.

Causes:

The exact cause of migraines is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to play a role:

• Neurotransmitter imbalances: Especially serotonin, which affects pain regulation.
• Brain activity changes: Involving the brainstem and its interaction with the trigeminal nerve (a major pain pathway).
• Genetic predisposition: Migraines often run in families.
• Hormonal changes: Especially in women (e.g., during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause).

Common Triggers:

• Weather changes
• Environmental factors: Bright lights, loud noises, strong smells
• Sleep disturbances: Too much or too little sleep
• Certain foods or drinks: Aged cheese, alcohol (especially red wine), caffeine, chocolate, MSG
• Stress or anxiety
• Hormonal fluctuations

Risk Factors:

• Age: Most often begins during adolescence or early adulthood
• Gender: Women are more likely to experience migraines than men
• Family history of migraines
• Medical conditions: Depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, epilepsy

Types of Migraines:

• Chronic migraine: Occurs 15 or more days per month
• Migraine without aura: Most common; no warning signs
• Migraine with aura: Visual or sensory disturbances before the headache
• Hemiplegic migraine: Includes temporary paralysis or neurological symptoms

Treatment:

• Pain relievers: NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen), acetaminophen
• Triptans: Sumatriptan, rizatriptan (target serotonin receptors)
• Anti-nausea medications: Cyclizine, metoclopramide, prochlorperazine