Migraine: Much More Than Just a Headache
Migraine affects 15% of the world's population
Dr. Thomas Bernard
Neurologist
In simple terms
Pulsating pain, nausea, light sensitivity: migraine is a debilitating neurological disease. Therapeutic advances offer new hope.
What is migraine?
Migraine is a chronic neurological disease characterized by attacks of intense headaches, often unilateral and pulsating, lasting from 4 to 72 hours. It is frequently accompanied by nausea, vomiting, photophobia (sensitivity to light) and phonophobia (sensitivity to noise). A third of migraine sufferers experience an aura — visual or sensory disturbances preceding the pain.
Triggering factors
Stress, lack of sleep, hormonal changes (menstruation), certain foods (alcohol, chocolate, aged cheeses), climatic variations and sensory overload are the most frequent triggers. Keeping a diary of attacks helps identify one's own factors.
Acute and preventive treatments
Triptans remain the reference treatment for moderate to severe attacks. Anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen) are sufficient for mild attacks. As preventive treatment, beta-blockers, amitriptyline and topiramate are used. Anti-CGRP antibodies (erenumab, galcanezumab) represent a major breakthrough for refractory migraines.
Complementary approaches
Relaxation, biofeedback, acupuncture and regular physical activity reduce the frequency of attacks. Non-invasive neuromodulation (vagus nerve stimulation) offers a drug-free option.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Chronic
- A problem that lasts a long time, usually more than three months, and often comes back.
- Acute
- Something that starts suddenly and lasts a short time.
- Inflammation
- The body's reaction to injury or irritation: redness, swelling, heat or pain.
- Hormone
- A chemical messenger made by your body that tells organs what to do.
- Prevention
- Steps taken before a problem starts, to make it less likely.
- Antibody
- A protein your body makes to recognise and neutralise a specific germ.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Migraine: Much More Than Just a Headache?
- Pulsating pain, nausea, light sensitivity: migraine is a debilitating neurological disease. Therapeutic advances offer new hope.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Migraine: Much More Than Just a Headache?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Migraine: Much More Than Just a Headache?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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