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Migraine

Last Updated: July 3, 2026

Key Points

  • Severe headache, nausea, light and sound sensitivity are common
  • Some people experience warning signs called aura, like visual changes
  • Migraine cannot be cured, but symptoms and frequency can be managed
  • Triggers often include stress, diet, hormones, and lack of sleep

Overview

Migraine is a common neurological condition characterized by severe headaches, often throbbing and on one side of the head. These attacks are usually accompanied by symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine attacks can last from a few hours to several days, significantly impacting daily life. While the exact cause of migraine is unknown, it's believed to involve changes in brain nerves and blood vessels. Genetics play a role, as it often runs in families, and women are more prone to migraines than men. Various factors like stress, hormonal changes, and certain foods can trigger an attack. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms during an attack and preventing future episodes. This can involve pain relief, specific migraine medications, and lifestyle adjustments. Identifying and avoiding personal triggers through a migraine diary is also a key part of managing the condition effectively.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Severe, throbbing headache (often one-sided)
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Extreme sensitivity to light and sounds
  • Visual disturbances (zigzag lines, flashing lights, blind spots)
  • Numbness or tingling sensations
  • Dizziness or difficulty speaking
  • Feeling very tired, yawning a lot
  • Food cravings or increased thirst
  • Mood changes, stiff neck

Things That Increase the Risk

  • Family history of migraine
  • Being female
  • Hormonal changes (e.g., menstruation, pregnancy)
  • Stress, anxiety, or depression
  • Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns
  • Skipping meals or irregular eating habits
  • Excessive caffeine intake or withdrawal
  • Lack of regular physical activity

Diagnosis

  • Review of symptoms and medical history
  • Discussion of headache patterns and triggers
  • Physical and neurological examination
  • Ruling out other conditions (if severe or unusual symptoms)

Treatment & Management

  • Over-the-counter painkillers (ibuprofen, paracetamol)
  • Prescription migraine medicines (triptans, gepants)
  • Anti-sickness medications
  • Preventative medicines (beta blockers, antidepressants, epilepsy drugs)
  • Acupuncture
  • Relaxation techniques and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
  • Vitamin B2 supplements
  • Lifestyle changes (regular meals, hydration, less caffeine)

Prevention

  • Identify and avoid personal migraine triggers
  • Maintain consistent sleep schedule
  • Eat meals at regular times
  • Stay well hydrated
  • Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption
  • Engage in regular physical activity
  • Practice stress management techniques
  • Maintain a healthy body weight

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Migraine:

Migraine Treatment

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Contents

Quick Info

Affects

People of all ages, more often women

Prevalence

Millions worldwide (e.g., 10 million in UK)

Diagnosis

Clinical assessment of symptoms

Treatment

Symptom relief and preventative measures

Medically Reviewed

Dr. Vijay Bhat

Dr. Vijay Bhat

Orthopedic Surgeon · Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

Reviewed on July 3, 2026

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