Migraine: Almost all of us experience headaches from time to time. There are various reasons why we might get a headache, and the intensity can vary. Many people frequently suffer from severe to increasingly severe headaches and often believe that these are due to migraines. Is severe headache always a Migraine problem? Let’s explore the details through this post.

Is a Headache Always Migraine?

It is a common neuro vascular disorder characterized by severe pain, typically on one side of the head. According to experts, there are over 150 types of headaches, which can be divided into two categories: primary and secondary. It fall under the primary category, as they are not caused by another medical condition. Diagnosis does not require blood tests or other methods. While it is a specific type of headache, not all headaches are migraines.

Why Does Migraine Pain Occur?

Although the exact cause is not fully understood, most believe it results from abnormal brain activity affecting nerves and blood vessels in the brain. The precise reason for this temporary change in the brain remains unclear. However, genetic factors and certain triggers can exacerbate pain. These triggers include:

Who Is More Likely to Have Migraines, Men or Women?

Studies show that one in five women and one in fifteen men experience migraines, meaning women are three times more likely to have them. This higher rate in women is due to hormonal changes related to menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. The problems may decrease after menopause but can increase before periods. Women aged 15-50 are more likely to suffer from migraines.

Common Questions

1. Is it hereditary? Yes, studies have shown that migraine can run in families. For example, out of five family members, four might have a history of migraines.

1. Can children get migraines? Yes, children can experience migraines. Pediatric migraines are often short-term and may involve stomach-related symptoms.

1. Does migraine cause brain damage or lead to other diseases? No, migraines do not cause brain damage. However, in extreme cases, there is a slight chance of stroke,

1. affecting 1 or 2 people in 100,000. Therefore, there is no need to be overly concerned.
2. Does taking too many painkillers help? Excessive use of medication is not advisable. Follow your doctor’s advice and avoid relying solely on medication.

Stages

It can be divided into four stages, each with different symptoms. Each stage can last between 7-72 hours. The severity, duration, and type of pain can vary from person to person.

• Prodrome: The initial phase involves issues like difficulty concentrating, trouble speaking and reading, muscle stiffness, nausea, light and sound sensitivity, etc. This phase can last from 3 hours to several days.
• Aura: Symptoms include visual disturbances like flashes of light, blind spots, changes in speech, ringing in the ears, zigzag lines, and alterations in smell and taste. This stage lasts 5-60 minutes.
• Attack: Symptoms include light, sound, and smell sensitivity, loss of appetite, dizziness, and nausea or vomiting. This stage can last 4-72 hours.
• Post-drome: This phase involves issues like difficulty concentrating, depression, and confusion. Known as migraine hangover, about 80% of people experience this stage, which lasts 1-2 days.

Are There Ways to Prevent ?

In addition to medication, following certain guidelines can significantly reduce this issues. Always take medications prescribed by a doctor and make lifestyle changes for additional benefits.

When a migraine starts, it can be difficult to tolerate. Everyone wants relief as quickly as possible. Medication takes some time to take effect, so knowing a few home remedies can help alleviate or make the pain more bearable during this period. Here are some tips:

1. Rest in a Dark and Quiet Environment: A person suffering from this problem should avoid light and noise, as the intensity of light and loud sounds can worsen the condition. Janine Good, Associate Professor of Neurology at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore, advises trying to sleep in a dark and quiet room. Although sleep may not cure all types of headaches, it can help reduce pain.
2. Apply Cold or Warmth to the Forehead or Back of the Neck: Applying cold or warmth to the forehead or the back of the neck can stimulate other nerves and provide relief from pain. Lawrence C. Newman, Chair of the American Foundation, suggests that applying ice or something cold can numb the pain sensation. Using a good-quality ice pack or a hot water bag can relax muscles and provide comfort.
3. Drink Water: According to the American Foundation, staying hydrated is crucial during a migraine. Adding a slice of lemon or a small amount of fruit juice to the water can improve its taste. Drinking plenty of water can help prevent migraine pain.
4. Massage Your Head: The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health notes that massage can help relax the muscles. Newman mentions that while massage might not work for everyone, many people find that head massage can alleviate their pain.
5. Try Meditation: Eight out of ten people with the experience mental stress. Meditation can help reduce this stress. It is important to practice meditation to reduce mental agitation and migraine pain, improve quality of life, and alleviate depression.
6. Exercise to Prevent Pain: Exercising can help prevent migraine pain. Starting with walking or doing simple exercises can be beneficial. Regular exercise helps reduce mental stress and improve sleep.