What are migraines?
Migraines are severe headaches that typically occur on one side of your head. They can last for several hours to even days. They can be so severe that they can impact your daily functions. For some people, they might present with signs and symptoms that occur before the start of a migraine. This is known as an aura. The signs and symptoms of an aura include:
- Visual disturbances like flashes of light
- Blind spots
- Other disturbances like tingling on one side of the face, arm, or leg
- Difficulty speaking
What causes migraines?
The cause of migraines is not fully understood. It is thought that genetics and environmental factors may a role. It is suggested that the condition stems from changes in brain chemistry that triggers pain and headaches.
What are potential triggers that can cause a migraine?
There are many ways in which migraines are triggered which include:
- Hormonal changes
- Drinks
- Stress
- Increased sensory involvement
- Sleep disturbances
- Weather changes
- Increased physical activity
- Medications
- Certain foods/additives
What are the risk factors for migraines?
- Family history: If a family member has a history of migraines, then you may be at higher risk.
- Age: Migraines can occur at any age. They are most commonly happen during teen years. They peak in your 30s, and then gradually decrease as you age.
- Gender: Women are 3 times more likely to have migraines than men.
- Hormonal changes: Women might experience migraines before or during a menstrual cycle due to changes in hormone levels. This can also occur when women are pregnant or experiencing menopause.
Is there a cure?
Currently, there is no cure for migraines. Treatments help ease the symptoms. You may need to try several medications before finding what works best for you.
To learn more about migraines, there are several resources listed below:
Migraine headaches Teen’s Health
References:
Ben-Joseph, E. P. (Ed.). (2018, December). Migraine headaches (for teens) – print version – nemours kidshealth. KidsHealth. Retrieved February 17, 2023, from https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/migraines.prt-en.html
16 count is available – ubrelvyhcp.com. (n.d.). Retrieved February 17, 2023, from https://www.ubrelvyhcp.com/content/dam/ubrelvyhcp/pdf/ubrelvy-dosing-card.pdf
Aimovig® – Medsafe. (n.d.). Retrieved February 17, 2023, from https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/Consumers/CMI/a/aimovig.pdf
Why treat or prevent migraines with Nurtec® ODT (rimegepant). Why Treat or Prevent Migraines with Nurtec® ODT (rimegepant). (n.d.). Retrieved February 17, 2023, from https://www.nurtec.com/why-nurtec
What is Migraine? The Migraine Trust. (2022, August 16). Retrieved February 16, 2023, from https://migrainetrust.org/understand-migraine/what-is-migraine/
Migraine. Migraine | Office on Women’s Health. (n.d.). Retrieved February 16, 2023, from https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/migraine