Migraines :What you need to know
Migraines are more than just severe headaches—they are a neurological disorder affecting about one in seven people globally. Women are three times more likely to experience migraines than men, mainly due to hormonal fluctuations during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. These intense headaches can cause nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and, in some cases, visual disturbances known as auras.
A migraine attack typically has four phases: the prodrome (early symptoms like fatigue or irritability), aura (visual or sensory disturbances), headache (severe, throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head), and postdrome (exhaustion and confusion). Not all individuals experience every phase, making diagnosis and management challenging.
Migraine Triggers and Management
Several factors can trigger migraines, including stress, hormonal changes, irregular sleep patterns, dehydration, certain foods (like processed foods, alcohol, and caffeine), and sensory overload. Tracking these triggers through a migraine diary can help in identifying and minimizing them.
Management strategies vary from lifestyle changes to medical interventions. Acute treatments, taken at the onset of a migraine, include over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin and prescription medications like triptans. Preventive treatments may include beta-blockers, antidepressants, and anti-seizure medications. Hormone therapy can help women whose migraines are linked to hormonal fluctuations. Emerging therapies like CGRP monoclonal antibodies and neuromodulation devices show promising results for chronic migraine sufferers.
Living with migraines can be isolating and impact daily life, but understanding the condition and exploring treatment options can lead to better control and improved quality of life. Consulting a healthcare professional to develop a tailored management plan is crucial.
References:
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), 2024.
- Bigal M.E., Liberman J.N., Lipton R.B. (2026), “Age-dependent prevalence and clinical features of migraine,” Neurology, 67(2):246-251.
- International Headache Society, “Chronic Migraine,” 2024.
- Sacco S., Ricci S., Degan D., Carolei A. (2012), “Migraine in women: the role of hormones and their impact on vascular diseases,” J Headache Pain, 13(3):177-89.
- NICE, “Scenario: Migraine in Adults,” 2024.
- Godley F. 3rd et al., “How Sex Hormones Affect Migraine,” J Pers Med, 2024.
- Trimboli M. et al., “External trigeminal neurostimulation in chronic migraine,” Pain Manag, 2023.
