Migraine
Migraine is an inherited neurological disorder that is characterized by hyperexcitable brain networks that may be triggered by a variety of stimuli (e.g. alcohol, menstruation, fragrances, light glare), or become active spontaneously, even during sleep, leading to attacks.
The clearest way to describe a migraine is that it is a headache that is severe. The diagnosis is made with two or more of the following characteristics:
- Unilateral headache
- Pulsating quality
- Moderate or severe pain intensity
- Aggravated by physical activity
Plus, one or more of the following:
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Photo and phonophobia
Other Facts
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Migraine is distinct from other headaches, characterized by symptoms such as throbbing pain, light/sound sensitivity, nausea, vomiting, aura, and vision changes.
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Migraines are one of the top 10 disabling medical illnesses globally. (American Migraine Foundation, 2019)
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Migraine affects 39 million people (12% of the population) in the United States and more than 1 billion people globally. (American Migraine Foundation, 2024)
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Migraine is particularly common in women. Three times more women experience migraine than men. (American Migraine Foundation, 2024)
Chronic Migraines
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Indicates the presence of at least 15 days of headache each month.
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Each headache lasts 4 hours or longer.
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Chronic migraine affects up to 148 million people in the world.
- Between 3% and 5% of the U.S. population suffer from chronic migraines.
There are several oral preventive agents that are available for chronic migraine and a newer preventive injectable, Botox. Botox is the first and only approved preventive treatment for chronic migraine.
At Broadlawns Medical Center we evaluate, diagnose and treat chronic migraine. Maintaining a journal of your symptoms and frequency and sharing it with your physician is suggested.
more information on chronic migraine