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A migraine is a neurological condition that causes severe, incapacitating headaches that last from a few hours to a few days. About 12 percent of Americans lives with migraines. Some types of migraines are not as common, such as abdominal migraines and cluster headaches (also called red eye migraine).
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The most common symptom of a migraine is severe throbbing, pulsing, or stabbing head pain, usually on one side of the head. Other symptoms may include:
Some people who have migraines experience auras that tell them a migraine will start, including:
Experts believe a combination of genetic and environmental factors play a role in migraines. Some people’s genes make them more likely to develop the disorder. Certain substances and physical conditions can be triggers for a migraine attack.
A migraine starts when a complex nerve pathway turns on. This pathway involves a major sensory nerve in the face, called the trigeminal nerve. Then, a change in the level of certain brain chemicals causes a hypersensitive pain response and migraine symptoms.
Although some migraines have no known trigger, risk factors for triggering the dysfunctional nerve pathway include:
Advances in treatment have helped many people cope with migraines. Some find relief from:
Attempting to prevent migraines may involve lifestyle changes and removing or avoiding known triggers. Relaxation techniques, cognitive behavior therapy, and biofeedback may also help reduce stress and tension triggers. Preventive medications may be helpful. The following drugs are commonly used to prevent migraines:
Effective treatment options for migraines exist, so you should speak with your primary care doctor.