Migraine is far more than just a bad headache. It is a complex neurological condition that can cause a severe, throbbing headache, often accompanied by a range of other debilitating symptoms. For many, migraine symptoms can interfere with daily life, making it difficult to work, socialise, or even perform simple tasks. Understanding the symptoms and available treatments is the first step towards managing this condition effectively.
Migraine Symptoms
Migraine symptoms can manifest in different stages, and not everyone experiences all of them. The typical progression includes:
- The pre-headache stage (prodrome): This stage can begin a day or two before the headache itself. You may notice subtle changes, such as mood swings, food cravings, neck stiffness, or frequent yawning.
- The aura stage: Approximately one in three people who have migraines experience an aura, which can include visual disturbances like flashing lights, zigzag lines, or blind spots. An aura can also cause other sensory changes, such as tingling or numbness.
- The headache phase: This is the most recognisable phase of a migraine. The pain is often described as a throbbing or pounding sensation, which can be moderate to severe. It usually affects one side of the head but can spread to both. During this time, you may also experience nausea, vomiting, and an extreme sensitivity to light (photophobia) and sound (phonophobia).
After the headache subsides, a person may feel drained and exhausted, a stage known as the postdrome.
Treatment options
Treating a migraine involves a two-stage approach: managing an attack when it occurs and taking preventative measures.
Acute treatments
When an attack begins, a person can take medication to stop it. Over-the-counter medicines such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can be effective for mild migraines. For more severe attacks, a doctor can prescribe triptans, a class of drugs that work by constricting blood vessels in the brain to relieve pain and other symptoms.
Preventative treatments
If you have frequent or severe migraines, your doctor may recommend a preventative medicine to reduce the frequency and intensity of your attacks. These medications are taken regularly, often daily, and can include beta-blockers, some antidepressants, or anti-seizure medicines.
In some cases, lifestyle changes such as managing stress, getting regular exercise and identifying triggers can also help.
The role of a neurologist
If you experience migraines that are frequent, severe, or difficult to manage, a consultation with a neurologist is an important step. A specialist can perform a comprehensive assessment to rule out other conditions and confirm a migraine diagnosis. They can then create a personalised treatment plan that may include a combination of medicines and lifestyle adjustments.
Dr Dominic Paviour is a consultant neurologist in London who sees patients with a wide variety of neurological problems, including headaches and migraines. He will take a detailed medical history and perform a physical examination to fully understand your symptoms and help you find a path towards effective management.
You can book an appointment to see Dr Paviour at one of his convenient locations, including Parkside Hospital, HCA Sydney Street, The London Clinic, and One Welbeck. Get in touch to arrange a convenient appointment.
