University of Iowa Health Science Relations and
Andrew Russo, PhD
Professor of Physiology
First Published: November 2000
Peer Review Status: Internally Peer Reviewed

Everyone experiences a headache from time to time. While certainly not enjoyable, it does go away with a little rest and possibly a pain reliever. Migraines, on the other hand, are much more severe than common headaches.

 

"Migraines are typically distinguished by a severe throbbing headache that usually affects only one side of the head and is often accompanied by sensitivity to light and sound, as well as nausea," said Andrew Russo, PhD, professor in the UI Department of Physiology and Biophysics.

 

Approximately 26 million Americans suffer from migraine headaches. The severe pain often associated with a migraine, from the temple to the back of the neck, can last anywhere from four to 72 hours. Individuals who have migraines may experience dizziness, numbness, double vision, drowsiness, and even vomiting before and during an attack.

 

The cause of migraine headaches is not concretely known. However, according to Russo, most experts believe there are both genetic and environmental components.

 

"The genetic component most likely makes some people more susceptible to the environmental and physiological changes that cause a migraine," Russo said. "It is safe to say that migraines tend to run in families."

 

Preconceived notions that men do not have migraine attacks are untrue. However, women seem to experience migraines more frequently, especially during menstrual cycles. "Women are three times more likely to get migraines than men," Russo said.

 

Medication is often the first treatment people seek, but the body's response may vary. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen may provide some relief. If these medications do not help, the next step is to consult with a health care provider.

 

Several medications may need to be tried before an effective one is found. While medications may provide relief, it is also important to be able to cope with migraines without using medications regularly.

 

"The best non-drug method for treating migraines is to minimize light and sound and to fall asleep. Once asleep, the body can apparently 'snap out' of the migraine," Russo said. "But the best therapy is to learn what triggers the migraine and avoid that stimulus."

 

What actually causes a migraine may vary, and several triggers may occur in different combinations. Each individual, however, tends to have the same recurring triggers. These fall into three main categories: foods, environmental factors, and physiological factors.

 

Food triggers can vary, from chocolate, dairy products and citrus fruits to preserved meats, coconut oil and salt. Environmental triggers include strong odors, loud noises, weather changes and even fluorescent lighting. Physiological triggers, like food, can be controlled. Keeping stress low, exercising, and getting adequate sleep are a few examples of ways to help prevent a migraine from occurring.

 

Understanding all the various migraine symptoms, triggers, and treatments can be tricky. Therefore, it is important for individuals to know what their symptoms and triggers are, as well as what treatment works best for them. Keeping a doctor regularly informed about any changes will allow for better migraine management.

For related information; see Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program, 319-384-5089