Migraine

Migraine is a condition that causes attacks of headache, usually felt as a throbbing or pounding pain, often on one side of the head. Attacks are commonly accompanied by feeling sick and by sensitivity to light, sound or smell. Some people also experience warning symptoms called aura. A migraine is more than an ordinary headache and can significantly affect daily activities while it lasts.

Migraine is very common and is one of the leading causes of time lived with disability worldwide. It can begin in childhood, adolescence or early adulthood and affects people of all backgrounds. Migraine is more common in women than in men, partly due to hormonal influences. Many people find that attacks become less frequent or milder later in life.

The main symptom is a moderate to severe headache, often throbbing and on one side, which can last from a few hours to several days. Many people also feel sick or are sensitive to light, sound or smell, and prefer to rest in a dark, quiet place. Some experience aura before the headache, such as flashing lights, blind spots or tingling. Symptoms vary between attacks and between people.

The exact cause of migraine is not fully understood, but it involves temporary changes in the brain and its nerve signals and chemicals. Attacks are often set off by triggers, which differ from person to person and may include stress, tiredness, missed meals, certain foods or drinks, and hormonal changes. Migraine often runs in families, so genetics are thought to play a part.

Migraine is usually diagnosed from a person's description of their headaches and symptoms, along with a medical history and examination. There is no specific test for migraine, but keeping a diary of attacks, triggers and how long they last can be very helpful. Scans or other tests are not usually needed and are mainly used to rule out other causes if the pattern is unusual or there are warning signs.

Treatment aims both to relieve attacks and, where needed, to prevent them. Many people use pain-relieving and anti-sickness approaches during an attack and find rest in a dark, quiet room helpful. For frequent or severe migraines, a doctor may suggest preventive treatments taken regularly. Identifying and avoiding personal triggers, keeping regular sleep and meals, and managing stress are also important parts of long-term management.

While migraine cannot always be prevented, many people reduce how often attacks happen by managing their triggers. Keeping regular sleep, meals and hydration, staying physically active, and managing stress can all help. A headache diary makes it easier to spot patterns. For people with frequent attacks, doctors can advise on preventive treatments to lower the number and severity of migraines over time.