What is Migraine: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Management

What is Migraine: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Management

Migraine is one of the most common reasons our patients request medical certificates online via NextClinic. It is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, intense headaches that can cause significant pain and disrupt daily life for those affected. Here’s a comprehensive overview based on information from reputable sources:

What is Migraine?

Migraine headaches are severe, typically pulsating headaches that can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. They can last for hours to days and often affect one side of the head. Migraines may also present with aura—visual disturbances or other sensory changes that precede or accompany the headache.

Migraine Phases

Migraine attacks are typically divided into four phases, although not everyone experiences all of them:

1. Prodrome Phase: This phase can occur hours to days before the headache and is characterized by subtle changes such as mood swings, food cravings, neck stiffness, increased thirst, or frequent yawning.
2. Aura Phase: Not everyone with migraines experiences aura, but for those who do, it usually involves visual disturbances such as flashing lights, zigzag lines, or temporary vision loss. Sensory changes and speech disturbances may also occur.
3. Attack Phase: The migraine headache itself usually lasts from 4 to 72 hours if untreated. Pain is often throbbing and worsens with physical activity. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound.
4. Post-drome Phase: After the migraine attack subsides, individuals may feel drained or washed out for up to 24 hours. They may experience lingering symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty concentrating, mood changes, or ongoing sensitivity to light and sound.

Symptoms and Causes

According to the Mayo Clinic, the exact cause of migraines is not fully understood, but genetics and environmental factors play a significant role. Potential triggers include hormonal changes, certain foods (like aged cheeses or processed meats), stress, sensory stimuli (bright lights, strong smells), and changes in sleep patterns or weather conditions.

Treatment and Management

Effective management of migraines often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and targeted therapies:

• Lifestyle Modifications: This includes identifying and avoiding triggers, maintaining regular sleep patterns, staying hydrated, and managing stress through relaxation techniques or therapy.
• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate symptoms during an acute attack. For more severe migraines or those resistant to standard pain relievers, prescription medications like triptans (which help constrict blood vessels and block pain pathways) may be prescribed.
• Preventive Medications: For individuals with frequent or severe migraines, doctors may prescribe medications typically used for other conditions, such as beta-blockers, antidepressants, or anti-seizure drugs, to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

• If the characteristics and nature of your migraine attack are different from previous ones.
• If your migraine or headache is associated with systemic symptoms such as fever, confusion, seizures, visual disturbances, and new neurological symptoms such as weakness in any part of the body.
• If you have more frequent migraine attacks.

Online Resources and Support

• The Brain Foundation emphasizes the importance of personalized treatment plans and ongoing support for individuals living with migraines. Online platforms and resources like those provided by Better Health VIC offer valuable information on managing migraines, including practical tips for lifestyle adjustments and updates on treatment options.

How to get a Medical Certificate Online for Migraine Attacks

When experiencing a migraine attack, the thought of looking at a screen or driving to your GP for a medical certificate can be overwhelming when all you need is rest and recovery. At NextClinic, you can easily request a medical certificate online from the comfort of your couch. Our team of Australian-registered doctors will swiftly review your request and approve it within one hour, enabling you to focus on recuperating promptly.

Please note, this service is intended for situations when you cannot see your GP urgently. For ongoing or differing migraine issues, it's advisable to consult your regular health practitioner.

Disclaimer:

This medical blog provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your regular doctor for specific medical concerns. The content is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication and may change. While we strive for accuracy, we make no warranties regarding completeness or reliability. Use the information at your own risk. Links to other websites are provided for convenience and do not imply endorsement. The views expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily representative of any institutions.