- Certain defining characteristics distinguish migraines from other types of headaches. Migraines are characterized by intense, throbbing pain, usually limited to one side of the head. The onset of the headache may be preceded by auras, which include visual disturbances such as flashing lights or spots, a metallic taste in the mouth or numbness or tingling in the hands or face. The debilitating headache is accompanied by sensitivity to light or sound, nausea and vomiting. The pain, if left untreated, lasts from four to 72 hours.
- The pain of the migraine results from a complex process involving neurochemicals and the vascular system. The process begins when a trigger causes arteries in the brain to constrict. The constriction reduces the flow of oxygenated blood to the brain, causing the visual disturbances and numbness of the migraine aura. Additionally, platelets clump and release serotonin, a chemical that further constricts the arteries. Other arteries in the brain dilate to compensate for the decreased oxygen flow. The dilated blood vessels press against neighboring nerves and trigger the production of neurochemicals that cause pain, increase swelling and inflammation, and increase sensitivity to pain. The result is the intense, throbbing pain of a migraine attack.
- The triggers that set in motion the migraine process are different for each migraine sufferer. Common triggers include high stress levels, lack of sleep, hormone fluctuations, certain foods (including wine, aged cheeses, chocolate, processed foods and additives such as nitrates or monosodium glutamate), skipping meals, allergies or weather or altitude changes. Caffeine acts as a migraine trigger for some people, but for others caffeine aids pain relief. Keeping a journal of your activities before each migraine attack--including meals, mood and sleep patterns--will help identify your own personal migraine triggers. Avoiding triggers, when possible, will reduce the incidence of migraines.
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