Migraine Headache Symptoms - How To Recognize Them
Do you experience severe headaches that usually last for several hours and occur at least twice a month or more? You may be having migraine headaches, but you cannot really tell for sure unless you know and are able to recognize the symptoms of migraine. However, self-diagnosis is not advised; letting a doctor examine you and properly diagnose you is still the best way. This is especially true if your headaches are frequent and there are no apparent causes for their occurrence. Only a doctor can tell if your headaches are being caused by underlying medical conditions.
The pain associate with migraines are severe that it can disable the affected individual, practically preventing the person from going about his usual routine. Migraines are typically accompanied by an aura, which can be bright flashing lights, dark spots in the vision or zigzag lines. Auras typically come on 15 to 30 minutes prior to the onset of a migraine. Once a migraine starts, it can last anywhere between a couple of hours or 72 hours.
It is estimated that 11 in 100 people experience migraines, and that women are more prone to getting them. Migraines are believed to be triggered by hormonal changes, specific foods, stress and changes in the environment.
Migraines have several symptoms:
* Moderate to severe throbbing or pulsating pain on one side of the head.
* Pain that becomes worse with physical exertion. This is the reason migraine can disrupt a person's daily routine. Usually, simply walking for a short while can make the migrain pain unbearable and excruciating.
* The pain is accompanied by nausea and occasional vomiting. In severe cases of vomiting, an anti-emetic drug such as Compazine or Reglan may be prescribed along with the migraine medication.
* A person who is about to have a migraine attack is unable to stand loud sounds or bright lights. Often, the migraine pain is alleviated by lying down in a dark room, away from loud noises.
* Auras often precede migraines, and they may continue to exhibit themselves during the migraine attack. Auras can be bright flashing lights, zigzag lines or blind spots in the vision field, and tingling or numbness in the arm or leg.
Except for the excruciating pain, migraines pose no serious threats. However, a trip to the emergency room is advised if:
* you experience a sudden, exploding headache that seems to come from nowhere
* your headache is accompanied by fever, stiff neck or mental confusion
* your headache becomes amplified whenever you cough, strain or make sudden movements
These can all be signs that you may be have a more serious medical problem, and you should be seen by a doctor.
With the right treatment, migraines can be controlled and managed. The only way you can get the right treatment for your migraines is to visit your doctor and ask him about your options.