Migraine Headaches: Signs and Symptoms

According to Aremmia D. Tanious, MD, neurologist with Jefferson Medical Associates, “A migraine is considered a vascular headache. Changes in the size of the arteries in and outside of the brain occur. Prompted by biochemical changes in the brain, one of the larger nerve branches in the head triggers a chain reaction. The distention of these vessels contributes to the pain of a migraine. The nerves around the blood vessels release chemicals that cause a sterile inflammation sending pain signals into the brain.”

Migraine headaches affect about six out of 100 people. Migraines most commonly occur in women and usually begin between the ages of 10 and 46. They appear to run in families in some cases. Classical migraines, those preceded by an aura, account for about one-sixth of all migraines. Common migraines, those without an aura, and other rare forms account for the rest.

“There are several types of migraines, all share basic features, and each person will suffer the headache in a unique way. Generally, migraines often begin as a dull ache and then develop into a constant, throbbing, and pulsating pain that you may feel at the temples, as well as the front or back or one side of the head. The pain is usually accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and noise. An aura may precede the headache. Dizziness, tingling, or other neurologic symptoms may be present during the headache and disappear after the headache is relieved,” continues Dr. Tanious.

There are two goals when treating migraines, to relieve the pain and prevent future attacks. Once a migraine has been diagnosed by your physician, your treatment will begin by identifying those circumstances or factors that trigger it. Keep a daily calendar of activities, foods, beverages, prescription and over-the-counter medications, physical and environmental factors, stressful situations, sleep patterns, and characteristics of the headache itself. Resting in a quiet, darkened room often reduces the severity of symptoms.

For more information, contact Jefferson Medical Associates at 649-2863.

A migraine can begin as a dull ache then develop into a constant throbbing and pulsating pain that is felt at the temples, front, back or one side of the head. They affect about 6 out of 100 people and most commonly occur in women between the ages of 10 and 46.

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