Are there many days on which you just sit and hold your head in pain? Are you unable to focus? Well, no, your

headache is not just a bad headache; it is more and known as a Migraine. Over a billion people in the world today suffer from it, while in India, the exact number is unknown. While migraine is the 7th leading cause of disability, it is also one of the most under-diagnosed conditions today. What we do know, however, is that both men and women can be affected by it; even so, it occurs more in women.

Did you know that it can also occur in children? Also, if you have a same, it is also likely that someone else in your family has it/had it, i.e. it simply runs in the family.

What is Migraine?

What is most important to keep in mind is that it is not just a bad headache. If a headache interferes with your day-to-day activities and continues for several days, you need to visit a doctor.

Signs and Causes of a Migraine: 

It is commonly a throbbing, recurring pain that affects one side of the head. Having its attack can be accompanied by visual disturbances (aura); nausea; vomiting; dizziness; sensitivity to light and sound; and also tingling in one’s arms, face, and legs.

An attack can last anywhere between 4 hours and three days. The actual cause of same is unknown, but there may be triggers, such as certain foods (chocolate), a smell, stress, anxiety, poor posture, lack of sleep, etc, that can set off a migraine. Triggers are unique to an individual, i.e. two people with it may or may not have the same triggers.

Managing Migraine: 

Therefore, when you have its attack, try to lie down in a darkened environment and take medications such as paracetamol or aspirin. If this does not work, your doctor may prescribe something stronger. Some people feel that during an attack, eating something makes them feel better, or that their condition improves after vomiting.

Remember to always make a log of all your attacks, so that you can identify your triggers and avoid them, to prevent future attacks. Seeking help at the right time can also ensure that your quality of life is optimal!

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