Migraine

Migraine is a type of headache that causes an intense throbbing or pulsing sensation in one area of the head. It is a neurological disorder (that is, a disorder related to the brain). Migraines can be classified as with aura, or without aura. Aura refers to feelings and symptoms you notice shortly before the headache begins. These early symptoms are also called a prodrome.

Migraine with aura is a type of migraine where there are warning signs before the migraine begins. This includes: ​

• ​Confusing thoughts or experiences
  

• The perception of strange sparkling or flashing lights
  

• Zigzag lines in the visual field
  

• Blind spots or blank patches in the vision
  

• Pins and needles in your arm or leg
  

• Difficulty speaking
  

• Stiffness in the shoulders, neck or limbs
  

• Unpleasant smells

Migraine without aura occurs without any warning signs.

At times you may experience migraine aura without headache, also known as silent migraine. This is where an aura or other migraine symptoms are experienced, but a headache does not follow the aura.

The exact cause of migraines is unknown, although they are thought to be the result of abnormal brain activity temporarily affecting nerve signals, chemicals and blood vessels in the brain. It's not clear what causes this change in brain activity, but it is possible that your genes make you more likely to experience migraines as a result of a specific trigger. Many possible migraine triggers have been suggested, including:

• Hormonal: for instance, menstrual or menopausal

• Emotional: due to stress, anxiety, tension, depression etc.

• Physical: due to low blood sugar, fatigue, strenuous exercise etc.

• Dietary: due to dehydration, malnutrition etc.

• Environmental: due to bright lights, strong smells, smoke, loud noises etc.

• Medicinal: due to sleeping pills, hormone replacement therapy etc.​

When to seek expert advise

If you or a loved one is experiencing sudden, intense headaches or any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is recommended that you consult with a doctor at the Mind and Brain Service Line​ at The Aga Khan University Hospital.

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