Although migraines are a common neurological disease, they are much more than just a bad headache. In most instances, the condition runs in families and can affect people of all ages. However, you are more likely to be diagnosed with a migraine if you were assigned female at birth than someone assigned male at birth. The pain may become moderate to severe without treatment, even though it may begin mild. It would be best to visit a Rockville migraines specialist as soon as you experience the symptoms.
What are the symptoms of a migraine?
The prodrome stage of migraines precedes the headache itself and begins 1 to 2 days earlier. At this stage, you will notice the following symptoms;
- Low energy or fatigue
- Depression
- Food cravings
- Neck stiffness
- Irritability
- Hyperactivity
However, the aura occurs after the prodrome stage in migraine with aura. You may experience impairments with your speech, movement, vision, and sensation during an aura. Some of the problems include;
- Temporary loss of vision
- Seeing bright spots, light flashes, or shapes
- Trouble speaking coherently
- A tingly or prickly feeling in your legs, arms, or face
The next phase is called the attack phase. You will experience migraine pain at this stage. It is the most acute phase. During an aura, this can overlap or occur in some people. Despite symptoms varying from person to person, you might experience;
- Dizziness or feeling faint
- Nausea
- Increased sensitivity to sound and light
- Vomiting
- Throbbing or pulsing head pain
- Pain on one side of your head. Pain is usually on the right side, left side, in your temples, front, or back.
You will often experience the postdrome phase after the attack phase. You will notice changes in mood and feelings that range from extremely happy and euphoric to feeling very numb and tired. However, you must understand that the intensity and length of these stages occur to different degrees depending on an individual. Sometimes, you might experience migraine attacks or skip a phase without a headache.
What causes migraines?
There is no definitive cause for migraines. However, scientists believe that it is due to irregular brain activity, which harms blood vessels, chemicals, and nerve signaling in the brain. Also, there are reported migraine triggers such as;
- Dehydration
- Bright lights
- Hormonal changes in people assigned female at birth
- Intense physical activity
- Smoking and alcohol use
- Excess stress
- Alterations in sleeping patterns
Treatment of migraines
Although it can’t be cured, you will get tools to treat symptoms from your doctor. Treatment may lessen attacks in general and make them less severe. In most instances, your treatment plan will depend on;
- How often the attacks occur
- Your age
- The severity of the attacks
- Kind of migraine
- Symptoms
- Underlying health conditions
After the assessment, your treatment plan will include the following;
- Lifestyle adjustments
- Migraine or OTC pain medications
- Prescription migraine medications
- Hormone therapy
- Alternative care such as acupressure, acupuncture, or meditation
- Counseling
Since migraine symptoms may mimic a stroke, you must seek medical attention immediately if you experience them. There are several treatments available, although they can feel debilitating at times. Ensure that you visit your doctor for a treatment plan as soon as possible.
