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Migraines are a medical condition that calls for a very personalized treatment approach.
Living with migraines is not easy, but the first step towards managing them is by understanding the science behind them
Have you ever been taken aback by a pounding headache so intense that even a flicker of light or a whisper felt unbearable? If yes, you might have experienced a migraine. More than just a bad headache, migraine is a complex neurological condition that affects millions of people worldwide. But understanding what happens in your brain during an attack can help manage the condition better and empower them.
A migraine is a multi-phase brain activity that starts at an unknown point known as the prodrome phase, which might be hours or even days ahead of the actual attack. During this time, you may feel irritable, tired, or even unusually hungry. These slight sensations indicate that the brain is preparing for what lies ahead. The migraine attack begins with Cortical Spreading Depression (CSD), a wave of electrical activity that spreads across your brain’s surface, bringing in a cascade of reactions, including the release of inflammatory chemicals and enlargement of blood vessels that lead to the pain and discomfort associated with migraines. People suffering from migraines may also experience a sensory phenomenon known as an aura. There can be zigzagging lines, blind spots or a tingling sensation that usually lasts from 5 to 60 minutes. Its appearance often signals the onset of a headache – a hallmark sign of migraines. Dr. Balaji B S, Consultant, Neurology & Epileptology, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru shares all you need to know:
Why Do Migraines Happen?
Not one cause can be pinpointed to be the reason behind why people suffer from migraines. So far, studies believe the cause to be a mix of genetics, changes in brain chemistry and environmental factors. Some people are simply more sensitive to changes around them or internally than others, which could lead to them developing migraines.
Usual causes include:
• Stress: Stress is one of the biggest factors that leads to the development of migraines.
• Dietary Factors: Certain food items like aged cheese, chocolate and caffeine can trigger migraine attacks.
• Sleep Disruptions: Both, sleeping too much or too little can disturb your brain’s equilibrium, leading to headaches and migraines.
• Hormonal Changes: Women frequently get migraines due to hormonal imbalances, especially during their menstrual cycles.
• Environmental Stimuli: Bright lights, loud noises and pungent smells can trigger this condition in sensitive people.
Treatment and Management Options
Even though migraines cannot be cured, they can be treated and managed well. Most of the time, treatment of migraine falls under either preventive treatment or acute treatment. Acute treatments are directed toward stopping an attack in the beginning like using over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed drugs whose effect is seen early in a migraine attack. For those who frequently experience migraines, preventive therapies can help lessen frequency and intensity. Medications, lifestyle adjustments and even relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation can be a part of the preventive therapy. Practicing habits such as avoiding triggers, maintaining regular sleep schedules, staying hydrated and consuming healthy meals also greatly help in preventing migraines.
In recent years, new therapies like Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) inhibitors have emerged. These medications target specific brain pathways involved in migraines, offering hope to those who haven’t found relief with traditional methods.
Living with migraines is not easy, but the first step towards managing them is by understanding the science behind them. Migraines are a medical condition that calls for a very personalized treatment approach. It is very important to proactively consult doctors as together you can identify triggers, develop a specific treatment plan and discuss options for prevention that will reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. You can gain control and improve your quality of life with the right care and guidance.
