Migraine: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

A migraine is a neurological condition that causes severe headaches along with other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Attacks can last from a few hours to several days, significantly affecting daily life. Understanding migraine causes, symptoms, triggers, and treatments can help manage this condition effectively.

Migraine vs. Headache: Key Differences

- Migraine pain – Throbbing, pounding, and worsens with movement.
- One-sided pain – Often affects one side of the head.
- Additional symptoms – Sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and vomiting.
- Long-lasting episodes – Migraines can persist from 4 to 72 hours.

Stages of a Migraine Attack

Many people experience migraines in four phases:

1. Prodrome (Warning Stage)

- Sensitivity to light, sound, and smells.
- Fatigue or frequent yawning.
- Mood changes (irritability, depression, or euphoria).
- Food cravings or loss of appetite.
- Digestive issues (bloating, constipation, or diarrhea).

2. Aura (Neurological Symptoms) (Occurs in 25% of cases)

- Vision disturbances – Flashing lights, blind spots, or tunnel vision.
- Numbness or tingling – In the face, hands, or limbs.
- Speech difficulties – Slurring or trouble speaking clearly.
- Dizziness or ringing in the ears (tinnitus).

3. Migraine Attack (Headache Phase)

- Moderate to severe headache – Throbbing pain that worsens with movement.
- Nausea and vomiting – Common in 80% of cases.
- Sensitivity to light, sound, and smells.
- Neck pain and stiffness.
- Fatigue and dizziness.

4. Postdrome (Recovery Phase)

- Exhaustion and muscle weakness.
- Difficulty concentrating (brain fog).
- Mood swings or feeling unusually happy.

Migraine Triggers: What Causes an Attack?

- Hormonal changes – Migraines often worsen around menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause.
- Stress and anxiety – Triggers chemical changes in the brain.
- Weather changes – Barometric pressure shifts can trigger attacks.
- Caffeine and alcohol – Too much or sudden withdrawal can cause migraines.
- Certain foods – Aged cheese, processed meats, artificial sweeteners, and MSG.
- Lack of sleep or excessive sleep – Disrupts brain function.
- Strong smells or bright lights – Can initiate an attack.
- Medication overuse – Frequent use of pain relievers can lead to rebound headaches.

Types of Migraines

- Migraine without aura – The most common type with no warning signs.
- Migraine with aura – Includes visual or sensory disturbances before the headache.
- Chronic migraine – Occurs 15+ days per month for at least three months.
- Vestibular migraine – Leads to balance issues, vertigo, and dizziness.
- Ocular migraine – Causes temporary vision loss in one eye.
- Menstrual migraine – Triggered by hormonal fluctuations.

Migraine Treatment Options

Migraine treatment focuses on relief and prevention:

1. Medications for Migraine Relief

- Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers – Ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen.
- Triptans (prescription medications) – Sumatriptan, rizatriptan, or eletriptan.
- Gepants (CGRP blockers) – Nurtec, Ubrelvy, Zavzpret.
- Ergotamine drugs – Used if triptans are ineffective.
- Nausea medications – Metoclopramide or prochlorperazine.

2. Preventive Treatments (For frequent migraines)

- Beta-blockers – Propranolol and metoprolol.
- Antidepressants – Amitriptyline and venlafaxine.
- Anti-seizure drugs – Topiramate and valproate.
- CGRP inhibitors – Aimovig, Ajovy, Emgality.
- Botox injections – For chronic migraine relief.

3. Migraine Devices (FDA-approved neuromodulation therapy)

- Cefaly – External trigeminal nerve stimulation.
- Gammacore – Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation.
- Nerivio – Worn on the arm to interrupt pain signals.

Lifestyle Tips to Prevent Migraines

- Maintain a regular sleep schedule – Lack of sleep is a major trigger.
- Stay hydrated – Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily.
- Eat regularly – Avoid skipping meals.
- Exercise regularly – Moderate exercise can reduce migraine frequency.
- Manage stress – Meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help.
- Track your migraines – Keep a diary to identify triggers.

When to See a Doctor?

Seek medical attention if you experience: - Severe headaches that last more than 72 hours.
- Headaches with vision loss, confusion, or difficulty speaking.
- New or sudden severe headaches.
- Frequent migraines affecting daily life.

Where to Get Medical Help for Migraines?

For in-person consultations, visit:

1. Paris: American Medical Center Paris

- 16 Avenue du Colonel Bonnet, 75016 Paris
Visit the website

2. Budapest: Expat Medical

- Visit the website

3. Berlin: Arztbesuche

- Visit the website

For telehealth services, consult TravelDoctor EU. Learn more: What We Treat.

For telehealth in Argentina & Mexico, visit Travel Doctor ES.

For more medical information, visit Hopkins Medicine.

FAQ: Migraines

1. Are migraines curable?
- No, but lifestyle changes and medications can help manage symptoms.

2. How long do migraines last?
- Between 4 to 72 hours, but some can last longer.

3. Can stress cause migraines?
- Yes, stress is a major migraine trigger.

4. Are migraines hereditary?
- Yes, genetics play a role, and migraines often run in families.

5. Can I consult a doctor online for migraines?
- Yes! TravelDoctor EU offers telehealth consultations.