Migraine is a type of neurological disorder that affects multiple parts of the brain, including the brainstem, cerebral hemispheres, and the nerves themselves. It is characterized by recurrent moderate to severe headaches that can last anywhere from a few hours to several days.
What Migraine Can Cause?
Migraine can cause severe, throbbing headaches, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. It can also cause fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes. In some cases, it can lead to blurred vision, dizziness, and even temporary paralysis or numbness.
Why does Migraine Occur?
Migraine is a medical condition that causes severe and often debilitating headaches. It is, however, thought to be related to abnormal brain activity temporarily affecting nerve signals, chemicals, and blood vessels in the brain as well as a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Possible triggers for migraines include stress, certain foods, hormonal changes, bright lights, and changes in sleep patterns.
Common Symptoms of Migraine
Migraines are usually accompanied by a range of symptoms, such as:
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Severe headaches.
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Sensitivity to light and sound.
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Nausea and vomiting
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Fatigue
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Dizziness and confusion
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Visual disturbances (flashing lights or blind spots).
Stages of Migraine
Migraines are often divided into four stages:
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Stage 1: Prodrome
This is a period before the migraine that can last hours or days. You may experience mood changes, fatigue, food cravings, irritability, stiff neck, constipation or diarrhoea, and difficulty concentrating during this period.
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Stage 2: Migraine with Aura
This is the second stage of the migraine and is characterized by visual disturbances, such as flashing lights or blind spots. Other traits may include difficulty speaking, numbness, or tingling in the face or extremities.
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Stage 3: Attack
This is the actual headache stage, which is usually the most severe. Migraine headaches are usually described as throbbing or pulsing pain on one side of the head. It may also accompany nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
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Stage 4: Postdrome
This is the period after the headache has ended. During this stage, you may feel drained or washed out and have mood changes.
It's important to note that not everyone experiences all four stages of a migraine, and the severity and duration of each stage can vary from person to person.
How Migraine Can Be Treated?
Migraine is a complex and often debilitating type of headache that can be difficult to treat. The best approach to treating migraines will depend on the individual and the specific symptoms they are experiencing.
Treatment for migraines typically includes medications to reduce the frequency and intensity of the headaches and lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of attacks. To get the best migraine treatment in Old Airport Road, Bangalore, consult with the doctors at Manipal Hospitals.
Lifestyle factors may include:
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Reducing or eliminating caffeine from the diet can help reduce migraine attacks.
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Learning to manage stress through relaxation techniques, including deep breathing, visualization, and yoga can help reduce migraines.
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Keeping a food and drink diary can help identify potential triggers. Avoid foods that increase your symptoms.
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Insufficient sleep or too much sleep can trigger migraines. Develop a consistent sleep schedule to help reduce the triggers.
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Medications
There are several types of medications that are used to treat migraines, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help reduce the pain of a migraine. Prescription medications such as triptans, ergotamines, and antiemetics can also treat migraines.
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Alternative Treatments
Some people find relief from migraines through alternative treatments such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and aromatherapy.
It is recommended to talk to the best neurology specialists in Old Airport Road, Bangalore, to find a treatment plan that works best for you. Please book an appointment with a Consultant in neurology at Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road for a thorough evaluation.
FAQs
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What causes Migraines in Females?
Hormonal changes, such as those associated with menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, are the most common triggers for migraines in females. Other potential triggers include stress, sleep deprivation, certain foods and drinks, bright lights, and strong smells.
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How do I know it’s a Migraine?
Migraine headaches typically cause throbbing or pulsing pain, often on one side of the head. They can also be accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and visual disturbances. If you experience any of these symptoms, you are likely to have a migraine.
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How to cure Migraines Permanently?
Treatments that can help reduce the severity and frequency of migraine attacks. These include preventive medications, lifestyle changes, and complementary therapies such as massage and acupuncture. Additionally, avoiding triggers, such as foods, stress, and certain medications, can help reduce migraines.