* The diagnosis is usually made by a doctor on the basis of typical symptoms and clinical examination. * There are no specific tests * Further investigations such as a brain scan and blood tests may be organised to rule out other causes. * The diagnostic criteria for classical migraine are: (A) at least 5 att…
* Aside from avoiding triggers, sufferers may get relief from medications such as painkillers and triptans. * However, if attacks are happening several times a month, a daily preventive medication may be recommended by your doctor.
Yes, there are various types, which have typical symptoms: * Migraine without aura- ‘common migraine’ The most common type consists of a severe throbbing one-sided headache. There may be associated symptoms of nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity and blurred vision. * Migraine with aura- also called ‘classical…
Migrainous headaches are usually severe and throbbing. They tend to involve one side of the head (though not always) and last between 4 and 72 hours. They are often worsened by movement or routine physical activity.
* Migraine is a common cause of headache, affecting around 1 in 5 Australians * But it’s more than just a headache- there are particular criteria needed to make the diagnosis, so it’s important to see a doctor to be certain * Common symptoms include a recurring severe throbbing headache that lasts between 4 and 72…
* The cause is not entirely clear. * However, a common theory is that blood vessels in parts of the brain become narrower (go into spasm) which causes the aura. * The blood vessels are then thought to open wide (dilate) soon afterwards, which accounts for the headache. * There may also be a genetic factor involve…
An attack may consist of defined phases: * A warning or prodromal phase may occur – there may be sensations or signs that a migraine is about to happen. Changes in mood and appetite may occur, as well as nausea, fatigue, yawning, difficulty finding words, diarrhoea or constipation. * About 20-30% of people may exp…
It’s not always possible to identify a trigger, but the following things may cause migrainous headaches in some people: * Dietary factors- cheese, chocolate, red wine, citrus fruits, and foods containing an additive called tyramine. * Excessive dieting. * Psychological factors- stress/anxiety, depression and slee…
Using pain relief or triptans too often may cause medication overuse headache. If you take pain relief or triptans on most days, this may be a factor in your headaches and you should see your doctor for further assessment.
* Sensitivity to light (photophobia) * Nausea or vomiting * Sensitivity to sounds (phonophobia) * Aura – this is a group of symptoms that may happen before a migrainous headache/attack. * Common aura symptoms may include: Visual disturbances such as zig zag lines, flashing lights, shimmering or flickering s…