The head of all aches
What's a migraine and how can I prevent one?
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When you get a headache, you may wonder about what caused it. Am I dehydrated? Have I had too much or not enough caffeine? Is it stress, lack of sleep or too much time staring at my computer screen? Could it be a migraine?
According to the National Headache Foundation, almost 40 million Americans suffer from migraines (affecting one in every four U.S. households), with attacks typically starting during a person's adolescence or early adulthood.
What is a migraine?
Migraines are a neurological disorder caused by the activation of a mechanism deep in the brain that leads to the release of pain-producing inflammatory substances around the nerves and blood vessels of the head, according to the World Health Organization.
Usually located on one side of the head, migraines are characterized by throbbing head pain and sensitivity to light and/or sound. This combination of pulsating pain and sensitivity often prevents people from performing daily activities such as work, school or household chores.
“Migraines are a disease of our brain,” said Steven Toenjes, MD, a board-certified neurologist with Baptist Neurology Group. “In many cases, a migraine is an event for people that can last up to an entire week with symptoms ranging from moderate to severe.”
Recognizing migraine triggers
Many different factors can spark a migraine, and they're not the same for everyone. What causes a migraine in one person may relieve it in another.
"There are a variety of things someone will do that consistently start migraine symptoms; these are triggers the person is often able to identify," said Dr. Toenjes.
Some notable triggers for migraines include:
- Light
- Smell
- Stress
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Weather
- Lack of sleep or changes to sleep patterns
- Barometric pressure changes
- Dehydration
“For the most part, triggers are going to be pretty obvious and the patient will tell us what they are,” said Dr. Toenjes. “Some can be difficult to notice, though, such as caffeine overuse and changes to sleep patterns.”
Phases of a migraine
According to the American Migraine Foundation, migraines have distinct phases. Understanding which phase you're in can help you identify and treat the discomfort early on, or prevent or minimize the side effects.
Phase one
The beginning of a migraine attack is called the prodrome phase and can last anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days, said Dr. Toenjes.
This phase is categorized by fatigue, irritability, sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, excessive sleepiness, lack of concentration and aphasia (difficulty reading and speaking). Increasing light sensitivity and neck stiffness are the most common prodromal symptoms migraine patients experience.
Phase two
The aura phase is spread over a period of minutes, tends to last less than an hour, and will most likely be followed by the pain “attack” phase shortly after.
“Aura symptoms can be quite variable, but most commonly will include visual disturbances, temporary loss of sight, and the spreading of numbness or tingling over the body,” said Dr. Toenjes.
Not all people who suffer from migraines will experience this phase.
Phase three
The next stage of the migraine is known as the “attack phase” and can last anywhere from four to 72 hours.
“This is the obvious pain phase when your head hurts,” said Dr. Toenjes. The attack phase can be categorized by sharp, searing, throbbing or pulsating pain, nausea or vomiting, as well as sensitivity to light, smell or sound.
Final phase
Known as the “migraine hangover,” this last phase can last anywhere from 24 to 48 hours.
“Once the attack phase is over, there can be this 'hangover' type of effect that can go on for another day or two,” said Dr. Toenjes. "It's often categorized by symptoms such as fatigue, mental fogginess, feeling rundown, insomnia and irritability."
How to treat a migraine
Treatment options for migraines vary with each person, but there are several strategies and preventive measures a person can take. These may include taking medicine each day or doing activities that help reduce migraine frequency.
It’s important to take care of yourself and know how to cope with migraines when they unexpectedly strike. Healthy lifestyle habits such as establishing a sleep routine, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly and finding the time to relax during stressful days can help.
“How we might behave to mitigate or minimize the way triggers affect us can significantly influence the headache syndrome,” said Dr. Toenjes.
When to consult with a doctor
When migraine episodes start to negatively impact your everyday life and ability to function, it's important to see a professional to make sure it's not a medical emergency.
“If you’re avoiding activities, missing work, experiencing reduced productivity and avoiding social engagements, you should seek the advice of a medical expert,” said Dr. Toenjes. “The name of the game is reducing the headache-related impact on a migraine patient’s life.”
If you or a loved one suffers from frequent migraines, you're not alone.
Specialists with Baptist Neurology Group are highly qualified to treat conditions of the spine, brain and nervous system.
Sources: National Headache Foundation, World Health Organization, American Migraine Foundation
