A migraine is a type of headache that causes an intense throbbing sensation in one area of the head.
It may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound.
In general, migraine headaches are very painful.
The American Headache Society (AHS) estimates that 28 million Americans ages 12 and older suffer from migraines.
According to the AHS, the vast majority of migraine sufferers — about 75 percent — are women and girls.
The exact cause of migraines remains unknown, but research suggests that genetic and environmental factors may play a role.
For example, studies have linked changes in the brain stem and the trigeminal nerve, which mediates pain, to the onset of migraines.
Chemical imbalances in the brain may also be involved.
Researchers have found that serotonin levels drop during migraine attacks, causing the trigeminal system to release substances called neuropeptides, which cause headache pain.
Finally, a change in the weather or barometric pressure can prompt a migraine.
Researchers have also identified several key risk factors for developing migraines, including:
Family history: The American Committee on Headache Education reports that between 70 and 90 percent of people with migraines have a family history of the condition.
Age: Migraine sufferers typically experience their first symptoms during adolescence, and most people who have migraines have had their first attack before they reach the age of 40.
Still, migraines can start at any time in life, depending on other factors.
Sex: During childhood, migraines typically affect boys more than girls, but this trend reverses during adolescence.
In adulthood, women are much more likely than men to experience migraines.
Menstruation and menopause: Women who experience migraines often do so immediately before, or shortly after, their menstrual period.
The frequency, severity, and duration of migraines may change during pregnancy or menopause.
Some women report that they experienced their first migraine attack during pregnancy or that their attacks worsened during pregnancy.
In general, migraines tend to be less common and severe after menopause.
In most people, there are triggers that can cause migraine attacks, such as:
- Certain foods and food additives
- Light or noise
- Physical exertion
- Disrupted sleep
Studies have linked cheese as well as salty and processed foods with migraines. Missing or skipping meals can also trigger attacks.
Research has also suggested that aspartame (an artificial sweetener) and monosodium glutamate (MSG, a preservative found in many foods) can trigger migraines.
Alcohol and highly caffeinated beverages have also been identified as potential migraine triggers.
Not surprisingly, stress at work or home can cause migraines, as can extremely bright lights (such as sun glare), loud noises, and strong smells (from perfume, cleaning products, or secondhand smoke).
Oral contraceptives (birth control pills) and vasodilators, such as nitroglycerin, have been linked to migraines. Intense physical exertion may also trigger an attack.
Finally, getting too little or too much sleep can trigger migraines in some people, as can jet lag.
How Long Do Migraines Last?
A migraine attack will typically last from 4 to 72 hours.
Migraines can, however, last for several days.
The frequency of attacks varies from person to person. Some people experience migraines several times a month, others much less frequently.
Migraine; Mayo Clinic.
Epidemiology and Impact of Headache and Migraine; American Headache Society.
The Impact of Family on Migraine; American Headache Society Committee for Headache Education.
Last Updated: 10/10/2017