A migraine is when severe headaches are accompanied by visual disturbances, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to noise and light. Migraines are widespread and affect women slightly more often than men. Children can also suffer migraine attacks. In addition to sleep disorders and stimulants, hormonal fluctuations can also be responsible for the headaches.
Here you will find further information as well as qualified migraine specialists and centers.
Migraines are seizure-like, throbbing, pulsating and periodically recurring headaches. They usually only affect one side of the head. A migraine attack is almost unbearable without painkillers.
People who suffer from migraines report seizure-like headaches that get continuously worse.
The exact cause is still unclear. Doctors assume that migraines are triggered by
is triggered.
Around ten percent of the population now suffer from migraines, with women being affected far more frequently than men. This is why migraines were long regarded as a "women's disease". However, men and children can also be affected.
The symptoms are usually exacerbated by
Patients therefore feel most comfortable in quiet, darkened rooms.
The causes and symptoms are varied, which is why migraine attacks are difficult to treat. It is noticeable that more and more children are complaining of severe headaches, which is why stress is one of the main causes.
Headaches and migraines in particular can have a major impact on everyday life © zinkevych | AdobeStock
There is still much debate about the causes of migraines. Several family members often suffer from migraines. Many doctors therefore suspect that the headaches are caused not only by external influences, but also by genetic factors.
The most common causes include
However, headaches can also be triggered by muscle hardening (so-called trigger points). These tend to occur in the neck and throat region. Food and stimulants, in particular
the headache attacks. They cause an increased release of the body's own neurotransmitter noradrenaline, which has a vasoconstrictive effect.
A dysfunction of the thyroid gland has a similar effect on the body. A healthy thyroid gland produces the hormones T3 and T4, which stimulate the metabolism. If the hormone level is too high or too low, this can lead to
can be the result.
Scientists also assume that serotonin levels are impaired. Serotonin is a messenger substance that is also known as the "happiness hormone". Serotonin lifts the mood, and the hormone also influences both our sleep rhythm and our intestinal activity. The neurotransmitter is stored in the red blood platelets (thrombocytes).
During a migraine attack, serotonin levels rise in the body. The serotonin concentration is particularly high during menstruation, which is why women complain more frequently of headaches during this time.
Migraines are usually divided into four phases.
In this phase, sufferers often complain of
Around 10 to 30 percent of patients suffer from a migraine with aura. Migraine with aura means that the headache is accompanied by neurological disorders. These include
In this phase, patients suffer from severe headaches that increase slowly but steadily. As a rule, the headaches, which are accompanied by
usually occur in the area of the temple or forehead (usually on one side).
In the so-called regression phase, the symptoms slowly decrease, but those affected feel irritable, tired and exhausted. It is also common for them not to feel hungry.
The main aim of treatment is to eliminate the factors that trigger the pain. This alleviates the pain symptoms. These include stress and the consumption of alcohol, nicotine, chocolate and citrus fruits.
Relaxation exercises (muscle relaxation, yoga) and endurance sports (jogging, Nordic walking) can also help to reduce the frequency of headache attacks. Massages and stretches can be useful for trigger points in the neck area.
Most patients are particularly sensitive to noise and light during the acute phase. They should stay in a darkened room. Disturbing noises (radio, television) should be switched off if possible. Cold compresses placed on the forehead or neck, for example, can help to reduce the pain.
Migraine medication, including NSAIDs (ASA, ibuprofen) and paracetamol, have proven effective for headache attacks. For acute migraines, so-called triptans are used, which are administered as suppositories or in tablet form.
However, these medications are not suitable for pregnant women or people with high blood pressure.
Unlike tension headaches, migraines cannot be relieved with essential oils and relaxation exercises. Therefore, if you suspect you have a migraine, consult a specialist straight away. Take your symptoms to a neurologist or general practitioner with in-depth knowledge of migraines. The German Migraine and Headache Society maintains address lists. You can also find a migraine specialist in your area.
The Leading Medicine Guide's quality assurance is ensured by the following acceptance prerequisites.
