June marks Migraine & Headache Awareness Month, a perfect time to distinguish between a common headache and a potentially debilitating migraine. Recognizing the signs of a migraine can help in seeking timely and appropriate treatment.
What Makes a Migraine Different?
- Intensity and Sensation: Unlike typical headaches, migraines often present as moderate-to-severe throbbing pain, which can last from a few hours to several days.
- Location of Pain: While headaches usually affect both sides of the head, migraines typically concentrate on one side.
- Associated Symptoms (Aura): About 15-20% of migraine sufferers experience auras, which may include visual disturbances like flashing lights or wavy lines, sensations of pins and needles, and even changes in taste or smell.
- Familial Occurrence: Migraines have a strong genetic link, with a higher likelihood if one or both parents suffer from the condition.
- Sensitivity to Environmental Factors: Those experiencing a migraine may find themselves particularly sensitive to light, noise, or smells, which can exacerbate the pain.
- Nausea and Vomiting: It’s common for migraines to induce nausea and vomiting, adding to the discomfort.
- Gender Disparity: Women are significantly more likely to suffer from migraines, which researchers attribute to hormonal influences.
- Prodrome Phase: A migraine might announce its onset a day or two in advance with symptoms like irritability, depression, food cravings, or sensitivity to light and sound.
- Trigger Factors: Migraines can be triggered by specific factors such as dietary changes, stress, weather changes, and hormonal fluctuations in women.
Managing Migraines
Identifying triggers and understanding symptoms can be crucial in managing this condition. If you suspect you are experiencing migraines, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider for a tailored treatment plan that might include lifestyle adjustments and medication.
Remember, migraines are more than just headaches and can significantly impact quality of life. Effective management is key to maintaining your health and well-being.
This article is based on information provided by Irene Lopez, “10 Signs Your Headache May Be a Migraine,” WebMD, accessed March 27, 2024.
For more information visit:
https://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/ss/cm/10-signs-headache-is-migraine
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