Migraine is a neurological condition that is characterized by recurrent headaches that range from moderate to severe.

It often affects one side of the head, and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and vomiting. Approximately 12% of the population suffers from migraines, and women are three times more likely to get them than men.

Types of Migraines

There are two primary types of migraines – with aura and without aura.

Migraine with Aura

Auras are sensory disturbances that often precede the headache.

They usually last for around 20-60 minutes and can include visual symptoms such as flashing lights or blind spots, as well as sensory symptoms like tingling or numbness in the face or hands.

Migraine without Aura

As the name suggests, migraines without aura do not have any sensory disturbances before or during the headache. They may still be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.

Main Causes of Migraines

The exact cause of migraines is not fully understood, but researchers believe that it is related to changes in the brain and its interactions with the trigeminal nerve – the largest nerve in the head.

This change in activity can trigger a cascade of events that cause the blood vessels in the brain to constrict and then dilate, leading to the pounding pain of a migraine headache.

Migraine Triggers

While migraines can be unpredictable, certain triggers have been found to increase the likelihood of an attack. These include:.

Hormonal Changes

For many women, migraines are closely linked to hormonal changes, such as those that occur during menstruation or menopause. Hormonal fluctuations may also be triggered by hormonal birth control or hormone replacement therapy.

Stress

Stress is a common trigger for migraines, with many sufferers noticing an increase in attacks during particularly stressful periods.

Environmental Changes

Changes in the environment, such as a change in weather, altitude, or time zone, can trigger migraines in some people.

Dietary Triggers

Certain foods have been shown to trigger migraines in some people, including aged cheeses, alcohol (especially red wine), chocolate, and processed meats like hot dogs or bacon.

Sensory Triggers

Some people are particularly sensitive to certain sensory stimuli, such as bright or flickering lights, loud or sudden noises, or strong smells like perfume or cigarette smoke.

Stressful situations like work or social interactions may also be considered sensory triggers.

Sleep Issues

For many migraine sufferers, changes in sleep patterns are a trigger. This may include not getting enough sleep, getting too much sleep, or changes in sleep schedule due to work or travel.

Physical Triggers

High-intensity physical activity or exertion can trigger migraines in some people, as can changes in head or neck position, such as during yoga or other exercises.