Headache & Migraine Evaluation

What is a Migraine?

A migraine can be described as an intensified form of a headache. Migraines are often characterized by severe throbbing pain, usually concentrated on one side of the head. In contrast, regular headaches typically manifest as varying levels of pressure or discomfort and exhibit fewer associated symptoms compared to migraines. Migraine episodes frequently coincide with nausea and visual disturbances, such as brief instances of perceiving flashing or shimmering lights. Sensitivity to light and sound is a common feature, and warning signs or triggers sometimes forewarn the onset of a migraine. spine.

What are the symptoms of a migraine

An unmistakable indicator of a migraine emerges when you experience throbbing pain, typically confined to one side of your head, although in some instances, this discomfort can encompass both sides. This distinct pain sensation sets migraines apart from conventional headaches. Moreover, migraines tend to exacerbate with physical exertion and exposure to light. The severity of a migraine can fluctuate but may intensify to such an extent and endure for a prolonged period (lasting from 4 to 72 hours) that it disrupts your daily routines. Additional symptoms associated with migraines encompass:

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Heightened sensitivity to sound and odors

How can you recognize the onset of a migraine?

For some individuals, there are early signs that precede a migraine attack. These premonitory symptoms may manifest as drowsiness (feeling excessively sleepy), hyperactivity (a restless sensation with difficulty staying still or concentrating), or irritability (an increased propensity to become easily annoyed or angry). Typically, these warning signs emerge approximately 1 to 2 days before the actual onset of the migraine.

Another type of warning sign is known as an aura, which represents a disturbance affecting your sensory perception. Among these, visual aura is the most prevalent.

A visual aura arises from a disruption in the part of your brain responsible for processing visual information. Visual auras can vary from person to person, and if you're experiencing a visual aura, you may encounter the following phenomena:

  • Zigzag lines resembling the walls of a fortress (fortification spectra).

  • Flashing lights or luminous spots.

  • Crescent or C-shaped visual distortions.

  • Intermittent flashes of light

Visual auras might also be accompanied by a transient blind spot or partial loss of vision, known as a scotoma. Additional types of auras include:

  • Sensory aura: Results in temporary tingling or numbness in the arms.

  • Dysphasic aura: Causes speech or language difficulties, such as slurred speech.

  • Hemiplegic migraine: Induces weakness in the arms, legs, and sometimes one side of the face, a rare and serious condition that necessitates immediate medical attention if experienced.

What are the various types of Migraines?

Migraine with Aura: This type often commences with visual disturbances, such as blind spots, flashing lights, or other visual symptoms. These aura symptoms may manifest approximately 30 to 60 minutes before the onset of the actual migraine.

  • Migraine without Aura: This variety typically lacks an aura and starts on one side of the head, lasting anywhere from 4 hours to 3 days.

Additionally, there are less common forms of migraines, including:

  • Vestibular Migraines: These may present with diverse symptoms, such as vertigo (a sensation of dizziness or imbalance).

  • Menstrual Migraines: Typically occurring just before or after menstruation, these migraines exhibit similar symptoms to common migraines.

  • Abdominal Migraines: Primarily found in children, this type may not involve headaches but is characterized by symptoms like vomiting and dizziness.

What triggers Migraines?

Though the precise origins of migraines remain somewhat elusive, several factors can contribute to their occurrence. Migraine triggers differ from person to person and encompass:

  1. Stress

  2. Insufficient Sleep

  3. Allergies

  4. Weather Changes

  5. Specific Beverages, Foods, and Additives (including artificial sweeteners and common ingredients found in processed foods)

  6. A Personal History of Migraines or Frequent Headaches

  7. Hormonal Fluctuations in Women (e.g., related to the menstrual cycle)

  8. Genetic Predisposition (having a family history of migraines)

How can you get rid of a Migraine?

When a migraine strikes, some individuals find relief through non-pharmacological remedies. Additionally, there are medications designed to mitigate the pain:

  • Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter headache medications can help alleviate the pain associated with migraines. For some, prescription drugs may be necessary, which can include oral tablets, nasal sprays, or injections.

  • Rest: Allowing your migraine to naturally subside by resting in a dark, quiet room can often be an effective approach. In certain cases, sleep is the best course of action.

How can you prevent Migraines?

One strategy for preventing migraines is identifying and avoiding potential triggers that may be causing your migraine attacks. You can accomplish this by maintaining a journal or diary to track your migraine history. Keeping detailed records can assist in recognizing patterns related to activities and dietary choices that may be contributing to your migraines. Once you have a better understanding of these patterns, you can take steps to avoid such situations and reduce the likelihood of future migraine episodes.

In some instances, preventive medications can be beneficial, and a Cohen Care provider has the capability to prescribe these when necessary.