Migraines
Migraines
Migraines (/maɪˈɡreɪn/; from the Greek words hēmi meaning "half", and kranion meaning "skull") are a type of headache characterized by severe pain on one side of the head. They are often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound.
Symptoms
Migraines typically present as a severe, throbbing pain on one side of the head. However, some people may experience pain on both sides. Other common symptoms include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light, sound, and sometimes smell and touch
- Visual phenomena, such as seeing various shapes, bright spots or flashes of light (aura)
Causes
The exact cause of migraines is unknown, but they're thought to be the result of abnormal brain activity temporarily affecting nerve signals, chemicals and blood vessels in the brain. Some potential triggers include:
- Hormonal changes in women
- Certain foods and drinks
- Stress
- Sensory stimuli
- Changes in wake-sleep pattern
Treatment
Treatment for migraines can involve a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and other therapies. Medications are typically used to either prevent migraines or to relieve symptoms once a migraine has started. Lifestyle changes may include avoiding known triggers, regular physical activity, and managing stress.
Related Terms
- Aura: A symptom of migraines involving visual disturbances.
- Cluster headache: A severe type of headache that occurs in clusters or cyclical patterns.
- Tension headache: A common type of headache characterized by a dull, aching sensation all over the head.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Migraines
- Wikipedia's article - Migraines
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