Migraine Headache Overview 

Almost 15% of adults experience painful vascular headaches (where the pain is caused by blood vessel swelling or disturbance) called migraines. Women have about two times higher risk of being affected. This risk increases further if you have a family history of migraines.

Migraines can be accompanied by symptoms that cause weakness and interfere with the activities of daily living. As well as the headache, other symptom such as nausea, vomiting and visual disturbances may occur. (See migraine symptoms)

Although there is no cure for a migraine, with the right balance of medical and non-medical management, you can reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. There are numerous migraine treatments that may provide relief, but your first step should be to talk to your doctor.

The most common treatments for migrianes are; Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, Triptans, Ergots and Anti-emetics. You may also be prescribed the following as preventatives; Beta blockers, Anti-depressants, Calcium channel blockers, Anti-epileptics and Anti-serotonin drugs. (See migraine treatments)

The exact causes of migraine headahces are not completely understood, but you may find that certain triggers can start or worsen a migraine. Avoiding these migraine triggers can become an effective means of reducing the number of attacks. (See migraine triggers)

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