Overview
Migraine is a neurological condition that causes attacks of moderate to severe headache, typically throbbing and on one side of the head, often with nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Attacks can last from a few hours to a few days and may be triggered by stress, missed meals, poor sleep or certain foods. Modern preventive and acute treatments can greatly reduce how often and how badly attacks strike.
Symptoms
- Throbbing or pulsing headache, often on one side
- Nausea or vomiting during the headache
- Sensitivity to light, sound or smells
- Visual disturbances (flashing lights or zigzag lines) before some attacks
- Attacks lasting 4 hours to 3 days
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if headaches are frequent, disabling, or need painkillers more than a few times a month — preventive treatment may help.
Emergency — call 108 or go to the nearest hospital
- A sudden, worst-ever 'thunderclap' headache, or headache with fever, stiff neck, confusion, weakness or slurred speech — go to a hospital immediately
Causes
Migraine runs in families and involves abnormal brain excitability. Common triggers include stress, hormonal changes, skipped meals, dehydration, irregular sleep and specific foods or strong smells.