Migrane: Meaning, Diagnosis and Overview

What is Migrane?

A migraine is a recurring, thumping headache that typically affects one side of the head, which intensifies and causes nausea, vomiting and increased sensitivity to light and noise. Attacks can last for anything from a couple of hours to several days. The cause of migraines is unknown, but the condition is thought to be hereditary.

Recovery Time

Migraines usually last from 4 to 72 hours and most people are free from symptoms between attacks. Sometimes the migrane lasts for days. Once you take treatment you may feel relieved from symptoms within few hours but there may be frequent attacks of migraine.

Diagnosis

The condition is diagnosed on the basis of your medical history, a review of your symptoms, and a physical and neurological examination. Others like blood tests, MRI scan, CT scan, Spinal tap (lumbar puncture) can be suggested.

FAQs prepared by doctor

Q1.  What is Migraine ?
Migraine is a form of headache, which occur unilaterally and is due to neurovascular disorder in the brain. It may be associated with nausea, vomiting, photophobia or phonophobia.

Q2.  How do I get Migraine ?
The cause of migraine headache is unknown. It may be multifactorial and triggred by factors such as stress, certain food, fatigue etc. Migraine attacks are also presumed to be genitically predisposed.    

Q3.  What is the treatment for Migraine?
The treatment of Migraine headache depends on the severity and frequency of attacks. Certain prophylactic medications are also available to prevent migraine headaches. They are initially treated  with analgesic like Paracetamol and Ibuprofen.  

Q4.  How long does it take to cure? Are there any chance of recurrence?