Migraine Causes and Symptoms: Know Why Migraine Occurs and How to Identify Its Early Warning Signs

Migraine is a type of severe, throbbing headache that differs from a regular headache. It usually affects one side of the head and can last anywhere from a few hours to several days. More than just a headache, migraine is a neurological condition, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and heightened sensitivity to light and sound.

There are two primary types of migraines — migraine with aura and migraine without aura. In a migraine with aura, the person may experience warning signs such as flashes of light, blurred vision, tingling sensations, or speech difficulties before the headache begins. Other forms include chronic migraine (occurring more than 15 days a month), hemiplegic migraine, and silent migraine (without headache but with aura symptoms). Recognizing the symptoms early and getting proper treatment is crucial.

What Causes Migraine?

The exact cause of migraine is not completely understood, but genetic and environmental factors play a major role. Chemical changes in the brain, such as a drop in serotonin levels, can make nerves overly sensitive and trigger pain.

Common migraine triggers include:

• Excessive stress or lack of sleep

• Hormonal changes, especially in women during menstruation or pregnancy

• Exposure to bright light or loud noise

• Certain foods and drinks, such as chocolate, cheese, and wine

• Irregular eating or dehydration

• Poor lifestyle habits

A family history of migraine significantly increases the risk. Women are nearly three times more likely to experience migraines than men, and the condition is most common between ages 15 and 55.

Early Symptoms of Migraine

According to Dr. Daljit Singh, Neurology Department, GB Pant Hospital, early migraine symptoms can appear hours or even days before the headache starts. This stage, known as the prodrome, may include:

• Sudden mood changes

• Frequent yawning or urination

• Fatigue or increased hunger

Some patients experience an aura phase, marked by blurred vision, flashing lights, or zigzag patterns.

The headache phase brings intense, pulsating pain on one side of the head, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Even mild physical activity or noise can worsen the pain. Identifying these signs early and taking prescribed medication promptly can help reduce the severity and duration of an attack.

How to Prevent Migraine Attacks

• Maintain a regular sleep schedule and eat healthy meals.

• Practice yoga or meditation to manage stress.

• Avoid bright lights, loud noises, and strong odors.

• Stay hydrated throughout the day.

• Avoid trigger foods such as chocolate, cheese, and wine.

• Take preventive medicines as prescribed by a doctor.

• Include light exercise in your daily routine.