Migraines are one of the most common causes of headaches and are triggered by changes in the brain and surrounding blood vessels. These headaches can last anywhere from 4 to 72 hours and may occur frequently—daily—or as rarely as once a year. Women are three times more likely to experience migraines than men. In addition, about 70% to 80% of people who suffer from migraines, also known as migraineurs, have a family history of the condition, indicating a strong genetic component.
There are different types of migraines. The most prevalent form is the common migraine, which makes up around 80% of cases and occurs without any warning signs or aura. On the other hand, classic migraines include an aura that typically appears before the headache begins. This aura is often a visual disturbance, such as flashing lights or jagged lines, and classic migraines tend to be more intense than common ones. A more severe form, known as status migrainosus, refers to a migraine attack that lasts longer than 72 hours and may require medical treatment.
Because headaches can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious medical condition, it is essential to seek professional medical advice if they become more frequent, severe, or persistent. Timely evaluation and diagnosis not only help in managing migraine symptoms effectively but also ensure that no underlying health issues are missed.
What Causes and Triggers Migraine Headaches?
The exact cause of migraine headaches is still not fully understood, but experts suggest that it may involve a combination of blood vessel dilation (widening) and the release of certain chemicals in the brain. These changes can lead to inflammation, which results in the pain typically experienced during a migraine attack.
Two important brain chemicals believed to play a role in migraines are dopamine and serotonin. Under normal conditions, these chemicals help regulate various brain functions. However, when present in abnormal levels—or when blood vessels are overly sensitive to them—they may cause the blood vessels to behave irregularly, triggering a migraine.
Several factors, known as triggers, can bring on migraines in individuals who are susceptible. These triggers vary from person to person. Common examples include:
Certain foods such as chocolate, cheese, nuts, alcohol, and foods containing MSG (a flavor enhancer often used in processed or Chinese foods) can provoke migraines in some people.
Skipping meals may also lead to a headache for some.
Emotional or physical stress is a significant factor, with migraines often occurring during or after stressful periods.
Hormonal changes related to birth control pills, particularly when estrogen levels drop at the end of the pill cycle, can lead to what’s known as an estrogen-withdrawal headache.
Smoking may either trigger migraines or interfere with the effectiveness of migraine treatments.
Medical Treatment
Migraine medications are used to manage both the symptoms during an attack and to help prevent future occurrences. These treatments are generally classified into two types: abortive and preventive. Abortive drugs are taken at the beginning of a migraine to stop or reduce its symptoms, while preventive medications are used on a regular basis to decrease the frequency, intensity, and duration of migraine attacks. Together, these approaches help in effectively controlling migraine and improving quality of life for those affected.
