Almost everyone gets a headache occasionally. However, when the pain becomes severe, pulsing and long-lasting, it may be more than just a simple headache it may be a migraine.
Migraines are a common neurological condition that can significantly affect your quality of life. They often cause intense pain, nausea and sensitivity to light or sound, making daily tasks difficult. Fortunately, migraines are treatable. With the right medical care and lifestyle changes, many people find lasting relief.
This article explains what migraines are, explores their causes and symptoms and outlines effective treatment and prevention strategies.
What Is a Migraine?
A migraine is a recurring headache that causes throbbing or pulsating pain, usually on one side of the head. This pain can last from several hours to a few days and often comes with additional symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or visual disturbances.
Migraines occur when abnormal brain activity temporarily affects nerves, blood vessels and chemical signals in the brain. Some people also experience a migraine aura, visual or sensory changes that appear before or during the headache.
Recognising early signs of a migraine and managing triggers can help reduce the severity and frequency of attacks.
Stages of a Migraine
Migraines typically progress through four distinct stages. Not everyone experiences each stage, but understanding them can help you anticipate and manage symptoms more effectively.
Prodrome: Early Warning Stage
One or two days before a migraine begins, your body might give early warning signs, such as:
- Constipation or digestive changes
- Mood swings or irritability
- Food cravings
- Neck stiffness
- Increased urination
- Fluid retention
- Frequent yawning
If you notice these changes, taking time to rest, hydrate and avoid triggers can sometimes prevent the migraine from fully developing.
Aura: Sensory Disturbances
For some people, migraines come with an aura, a set of short-term neurological symptoms that usually last up to an hour.
Common aura symptoms include:
- Seeing flashing lights, zigzag patterns or blind spots
- Tingling sensations in the face, arm or leg
- Temporary speech difficulties
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
Although aura symptoms can feel unsettling, they are temporary and often fade before the headache begins.
Attack: The Main Migraine Phase
The migraine attack phase usually lasts between four and seventy-two hours if untreated. During this stage, you may experience:
- Severe, throbbing head pain (often on one side)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light, sound and smell
- Blurred vision or dizziness
Resting in a dark, quiet room and using prescribed migraine medication can help manage symptoms and shorten the attack.
Postdrome: Recovery Phase
Once the headache eases, you may feel fatigued, confused or mentally foggy for up to a day. Some people describe this as a “migraine hangover.” Others feel light and energised.
Gentle movement, hydration and rest can help your body recover during this stage.
Common Migraine Triggers
Migraines have many potential triggers and these can differ from person to person. Identifying and managing your triggers can play a major role in prevention.
Frequent migraine triggers include:
- Hormonal changes, such as during menstruation
- Stress or emotional tension
- Skipped meals or dehydration
- Bright lights or flickering screens
- Strong smells or loud noise
- Certain foods, such as chocolate, aged cheese or processed meats
- Caffeine withdrawal or overuse
- Poor sleep or sudden changes in sleep patterns
Keeping a migraine diary can help you track patterns and identify what may be triggering your attacks.
When to See a Doctor
Migraines are often underdiagnosed, but medical support can make a significant difference. If you experience frequent or severe headaches that impact your daily life, it is important to speak with your GP.
Seek urgent medical attention if you experience:
- A sudden, severe headache described as a “thunderclap”
- Headache with fever, stiff neck, confusion, seizures or double vision
- Headache following a head injury
- Headache that worsens with coughing, movement or exertion
- New headache pain after age 50
These symptoms could indicate a more serious medical condition that requires immediate assessment.
Migraine Treatment and Management
Although there’s no permanent cure for migraines, several treatments can help manage symptoms and prevent future attacks. A combination of medical care, self-management and lifestyle adjustments is often most effective.
Medical Treatments
Your GP may recommend:
- Pain-relief medications for acute symptoms
- Preventive medicines to reduce frequency
- Anti-nausea treatments for associated symptoms
Early intervention can make medication more effective and reduce the severity of attacks.
Lifestyle and Self-Care Strategies
Alongside medication, lifestyle changes can help reduce migraine episodes:
- Maintain regular sleep and meal routines
- Stay well-hydrated throughout the day
- Exercise regularly but avoid overexertion
- Manage stress through relaxation, breathing or mindfulness techniques
- Limit alcohol and caffeine intake
- Avoid or reduce exposure to personal triggers
In Brisbane, GPs can create a Chronic Disease Management Plan or Mental Health Care Plan, which may include referrals to allied health professionals, such as psychologists, physiotherapists or dieticians, for comprehensive care.
Conclusion
Migraines can disrupt your life, but understanding how they work and knowing when to seek help can make all the difference. By recognising the symptoms early, managing triggers and working closely with your GP, you can significantly reduce migraine frequency and improve your overall wellbeing.
If you experience recurring headaches or migraines, do not wait speak with a healthcare professional today. With proper diagnosis and support, effective relief is possible.
About Lakes Family Medical Centre
Lakes Family Medical Centre is a trusted healthcare provider located in Brisbane, QLD, offering comprehensive medical services for individuals and families. Our experienced General Practitioners and Allied Health professionals provide personalised care for a wide range of health concerns including migraine management, chronic conditions, mental health support and preventive health care. We focus on helping every patient achieve long-term wellbeing through regular health checks and compassionate support from our dedicated healthcare team.
Related Articles:
