Health and WellnessNews
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September 29, 2025September 29, 2025
Migraine: More Than Just A Headache.

Migraine is a chronic neurological disorder involving repeated attacks of moderate to severe headaches, usually on one side of the head. Attacks can last hours or even days and may be triggered by various factors.

TYPES OF MIGRAINES

  • MIGRAINE WITHOUT AURA
  • The most common type
  • Throbbing pain, often with nausea and light sensitivity.
  •  MIGRAINE WITH AURA
  • Includes warning signs like flashing lights, blind spots, or tingling before the headache begins.
  • CHRONIC MIGRAINE
  • Occurs 15 or more days per month.
  • Can severely affect quality of life.
  • HEMPLEGIC OR VESTIBULAR MIGRAINE
  • Rare types that involve weakness, balance issues, or dizziness.

Common Symptoms

  • Throbbing or pulsating headache (often one- sided).
  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Sensitivity to light(photophobia) and sound(phonophobia)
  • Visual disturbances (auras)
  • Dizziness or fatigue
  • Mood changes before or after the attack.
TRIGGERS OF MIGRAINE Migraine triggers vary by person but others include: Stress or anxietyLack of sleep or oversleepingCertain foods (e.g, aged cheese, caffeine, chocolate)Hormonal changes in women.Strong smells or bright lightsSkipping mealsWeather changes.

Treatment.

  • ACUTE (PAIN RELIEF) TREATMENT: Used during attacks to relieve pain.
  • Over-the-counter painkillers (e.g ibuprofen, paracetamol.)
  • Prescription medications e.g triptans
  • Anti-nausea drugs.
  • PREVENTIVE TREATMENT: for frequent or severe migraines.
  • Beta-blockers or anti-seizures drugs.
  • Antidepressants
  • Botox injections (for chronic migraine)
  • Newer treatments like CGRP inhibitors.
  • LIFESTYLE MANAGEMENT:
  • Regular sleep and meal times
  • Stress management (e.g medication, yoga)
  • Avoiding known triggers
  • Staying hydrated.

Seek Medical Advice If:

Headaches are frequent or disablingSymptoms change or worsen suddenlyMedication stops workingHeadache is accompanied by confusion, fever, or vision loss.    

Migraine is a serious and often invisible condition that goes far beyond a typical headache. While it can’t always be cured, it can be managed with the right combination of treatment, awareness, and lifestyle changes.

If you or someone you know suffers from migraines, know that support and relief are possible.

BY: Adenola Eniola.