Community
Migraine
Severe headaches often with nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Tracking your symptoms and connecting with others who understand can help you manage day to day.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider about your specific condition and treatment.
When to seek help
Seek emergency care for a sudden “worst-ever” headache, a headache with fever, stiff neck, confusion, or weakness, or a headache after a head injury.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency services immediately.
Overview
Migraine is a neurological condition that causes recurring, often severe headaches, usually on one side, with throbbing pain and sensitivity to light and sound.
Symptoms
- Throbbing headache, often one-sided
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light, sound, and smells
- Visual disturbances (aura) in some people
Causes
Not fully understood; involves abnormal brain activity affecting nerves and blood vessels. Genetics play a role.
Types
- Migraine with aura
- Migraine without aura
- Chronic migraine (15 or more headache days a month)
Diagnosis
Diagnosed from your symptom pattern and exam; imaging is used only to rule out other causes when warning signs are present.
Treatment
Acute medicines to stop an attack early, plus preventive medicines for frequent migraines. Lifestyle and trigger management also help.
Living with it
- Keep a headache diary
- Maintain regular sleep, meals, and hydration
- Identify and avoid personal triggers
- Manage stress
Complications
- Status migrainosus (an attack lasting more than 72 hours)
- Medication-overuse headache
- Disability and missed work or school
Resources
Frequently asked questions
Is a migraine just a bad headache?
No. Migraine is a neurological condition with more symptoms than head pain, and it often needs specific treatment.
Join the Migraine community
Talk with people who understand, share what helps, and find support from others living with migraine. Private, moderated, and free.
Posts in this community reflect personal experiences, not medical advice. Always talk to your doctor before changing your treatment.