Apple Valley, CA
760-242-1234

What are migraine headaches?

Migraine headaches are characterized by severe, throbbing that usually occurs on one side of the head. Other symptoms often include nausea and vomiting, visual distortions, dizziness, and increased sensitivity to light.

A classic migraine headache is preceded by an aura, in which the person sees flashing lights, distorted shapes and colors, and other visual apparitions. This is sometimes referred to as the Alice in Wonderland syndrome because of the similarity to the experiences described by Lewis Carroll, a migraine sufferer, in his classic Alice Through the Looking Glass.

What causes migraine headaches?

The head pain is believed to be from an inflammation or irritation of the blood vessels in the scalp. These blood vessels first contract and then expand, resulting in inflammation and throbbing pain. Doctors don't fully understand what causes the vascular changes, but it appears that prostaglandins — hormone-like substances that produce inflammation and pain — may play a role.

Hormones are also a factor. About 70 percent of all migraine sufferers are women, and it is known that changing hormone levels during menstruation and ovulation often trigger attacks.

In addition, a number of environmental factors trigger migraines in susceptible people. The most common triggers

appear to be foods or food additives, especially things like aged cheese, chicken livers, citrus fruits, chocolate, red wine, mono-sodium glutamate, and preservatives found in smoked and processed meats. Other stimuli that may trigger attacks include odors, changes in barometric pressure, high altitudes, and sunlight glare. Anger, stress, and other emotional factors can also trigger migraines.

How are migraine headaches diagnosed and treated?

Diagnosis is based on symptoms and a review of family history. X-rays and other imaging studies may be ordered to rule out a tumor.

The most effective treatment is to prevent the headaches from occurring. This entails identifying triggering factors and avoiding them. There also are medications that can be taken prophylactically or at the first sign of an impending migraine. A variety of drugs and strategies may be tried before finding one that works.

What can I do myself?
Headache specialists have found that a migraine can often be aborted by taking quick action during the aura stage. A common strategy entails taking aspirin with a cola, coffee, or other source of caffeine. The aspirin inhibits prostaglandin production and the caffeine counters the vascular changes. Another strategy entails lying down in a darkened room with a cool compress on the forehead. In mild cases, this may prevent the dilation of scalp blood vessels and abort or minimize the attack.

If you suffer from frequent attacks, ask your doctor about preventive medications, such as beta-blocking drugs. You also may want to try nonmedical preventive approaches such as biofeedback and relaxation therapy.

When should I see my doctor?
Severe or recurrent headaches that are not alleviated by aspirin warrant medical investigation.

What will the doctor do?
A complete checkup is necessary to rule out a tumor or other causes of headache. This may include head x-rays or a CT (computed tomography) scan to see if there are organic abnormalities causing the head pain.

If migraine attacks are frequent, prophylactic medication may be recommended. These medications are taken daily and may include beta blockers and ergot drugs.

The course of migraine headaches

Classic migraine begins with an aura that lasts 10 to 30 minutes before the onset of the headache. During the attack, the aura disappears and the pain becomes intense and throbbing. The pain is usually limited to one side of the head. Sometimes vomiting relieves the attack. A migraine can last from several minutes to five days or longer.

Are migraine headaches dangerous?
Most headaches are not serious and resolve themselves. However, frequent migraines can impair the quality of life. Recent studies indicate that men who suffer from migraines have an increased risk of stroke. The reasons for this are unknown.