What you need to know
- For a subset of migraine sufferers, this condition can become chronic, impacting everyday life and causing widespread problems and secondary issues.
- The exact cause of migraine is not known, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic factors, hypersensitive nervous system and environmental or lifestyle triggers.
- While there is no cure for migraine, the goal is always to limit triggers and then manage the symptoms to lessen the impact on day-to-day life.
What are migraine headaches?
A migraine is a common neurological disorder that presents as a throbbing headache typically isolated to one side of the head. It is commonly accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and extreme sensitivity to light and sound.
Around one third of those living with migraines will also experience visual or other sensory symptoms before an attack.
This can include flashing lights, bright colours, zigzag lines and numbness. This is known as a migraine aura and can be a helpful indicator that a migraine attack is imminent.
Migraines would be considered chronic if the individual suffers from 15 headache days or more per month over three months. Otherwise, migraines would be considered episodic, which are much less frequent.
Common migraine triggers
We don’t fully understand why some people suffer from migraines and why some people experience chronic migraines. Common triggers include:
- Certain foods, including chocolate, aged cheese, fermented foods, alcohol, MSG and artificial sweeteners.
- Skipping meals, dehydration and caffeine withdrawal.
- Hormonal changes, such as fluctuations in estrogen caused by menstrual cycles, menopause and oral contraceptives.
- Emotional and physical stress, including anxiety and intense exercise.
- Environmental triggers, such as bright lights, loud noises, strong smells and changes in weather and altitude.
- Sleep patterns, including too much or too little sleep and erratic sleep schedules.
The first step in tackling chronic migraines is to understand the causes.
Keeping a symptom journal can help to pinpoint the triggers that patients are most sensitive to.
Treatment for migraine
Medication is currently the only treatment option for migraine, but patients will often find their own ways to manage symptoms and reduce severity.
Triptans such as sumatriptan are commonly prescribed to help relieve migraine symptoms. NSAIDs like ibuprofen and aspirin may also reduce pain, while anti-emetics can help manage nausea.
Preventative options include beta-blockers and Botox injections to block pain signals and reduce migraine frequency. Acupuncture and lifestyle adjustments can also be effective.
Getting support with migraine
Support for migraines can come from your primary care physician, employer and close loved ones. Understanding the severity of a migraine attack is essential for those around you.
Individuals with frequent migraines often develop coping strategies such as avoiding bright lights and loud noises, or adjusting diet to manage nausea.
Some people experience a migraine aura as a warning sign, while others have no advance symptoms.
Some people find relief by placing feet in very hot water to draw blood away from the head, while others use herbal remedies such as essential oils.
Everyone is different and migraine management depends on individual triggers and what typically brings relief.
Frequently asked questions
Are migraines considered a chronic illness?
Yes, migraines can be considered a chronic illness when they are frequent and severe enough to interfere with everyday life.
Can chronic migraines be cured?
There is currently no cure for migraine, but understanding triggers can help manage symptoms and reduce frequency.
When should I see a doctor for chronic migraine?
You should see a doctor if your migraines are becoming more frequent, more severe or if you are not currently receiving treatment.
