- A migraine is a common medical condition which presents itself as an intense throbbing headache, sometimes accompanied by nausea, vomiting and strong sensitivity to light or sound.
- There are two common types of migraine headaches. The migraine with aura is characterized by an aura visualized by patients 10 to 20 minutes before onset; the migraine without aura often affects both sides of the head.
- Although thought to be genetic in nature, migraines do not have an exact cause. Chocolate, poor eating habits, stress and lack of sleep are all possible triggers for migraine headaches.
- Through physical examination and a series of questions regarding the intensity, frequency and symptoms experienced with these headaches, doctors can generally diagnosis migraines without additional tests.
- Migraines can be treated in a variety of ways, including over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, prescription medications and alternative methods. Alternative methods include acupuncture, cool packs on the head and lying in a dark, quiet room until the headache eases.
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