Migraine Symptoms

A migraine headache is a unusually intense throbbing headache, usually situated on one side of the head (but can occur on both sides). These headaches are sometimes accompanied by nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to sounds/light, flashing lights, or temporary vision loss. Migraines are much more common in woman than in men and typically happen to people between the ages of 15 and 55, though people younger and older than that can certainly have migraines as well. Migraines do tend to run in the family.
The typical migraine headache pain occurs over one eye. The headache is often made worse by moving or bending over. One in five migraine suffer also experiences an `aura` before or with the migraine. An aura is a visual disturbance such as the aforementioned flashing lights or temporary vision loss. At times, migraine suffers may feel weak or slur their words when speaking. The aura typically only last 15 or 20 minutes only to be replaced by the debilitating headache.
There is no known cause of migraines, though those who suffer from them should be on the lookout for certain triggers that make them more prone to having a headache. Identifying triggers is not an easy task. Many doctors suggest starting a headache diary and keeping track of everything so it might be easier to identify a headache if one comes. Common migraine triggers are: inconsistency with sleep patterns, certain foods (i.e., cheese, chocolate, alcohol, etc), stress, birth control pills, smoking, etc. It is important to recognize what triggers a migraine so preventative steps can be taken to avoid getting them as often. Making lifestyles changes is very important and may include avoiding certain types of foods or emotional situations if that is what causing the migraines.
There are several ways a migraine can be treated at home. Using painkillers such as acetaminophen might help during a more mild migraine. Non-medicinal treatments include secluding oneself in a quiet dark room during the duration of the headache and using a cold face cloth on ones forehead. If the migraine sufferer endures many migraines, a prescription for medicine may be in order. There are many drugs on the market that are used to treat migraines. It would be beneficial to talk to a doctor about which one might work best for you.