Migraine Headaches
Symptoms
Migraine headache symptoms vary and may occur with or without a warning sign called an aura. People who get an aura, which usually begins within 30 minutes before the headache starts, may see spots, wavy lines, or flashing lights. Some people have numbness or a "pins-and-needles" sensation in their hands, arms, or face during the aura. However, most people do not have an aura before they get a migraine headache.
Common symptoms of migraine include:
- Throbbing or pulsating headache on one side of your head.
- Moderate to severe headache intensity.
- Your headache getting worse with routine physical activity.
- Nausea, vomiting, or both.
- Sensitivity to light and noise, and sometimes smells.
There are several types of migraine headaches, each with unique features. For example, some women get migraines before, during, or shortly after their menstrual period.
It can be difficult to distinguish migraines from other types of headaches. Sinus or tension headaches have symptoms similar to those of migraines. Unlike other headaches, however, migraines usually occur on one side of your head, although the side that is affected can shift with each new attack. Migraines are also often accompanied by sensitivity to light and noise.
Migraines may occur along with many other conditions such as asthma or depression.3 More serious conditions, such as tumors or infections, can also cause migraine-like symptoms. Headaches that are caused by more serious health problems are rare.
| Author: | Monica Rhodes | Last Updated: July 3, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Colin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology | |
I know exactly how you feel! It sucks, because you feel like no-one gets it! It is so hard to function or be happy, as hard as you try. They take every thing out of you,and affect every aspect of your life. There ha to be an underlined cause that can be cured or treated. I'm looking into thyroid possibly. Good luck!
YES KITTYCAT 2.
this might help.
cluster headaches.[yes,its an actually headache type.]they are far worse then migraines. ask your doctor if its possible you have them. they occur because the frontal nerve on the right side of your brain gets pinched against your skull. these headaches can occur at anytime,but normally season changes,extreme fatigue,stress,monthly cycles,etc. they're hard,but not impossible to diagnose. their is no cure. only prescriptions to alleviate the pain. most likely theyll put you on steroids,and you'll receive oxygen tanks. when you get a headache,the only thing that can alleviate it quickly is the oxygen.pure oxygen reduces the swelling,and the pinched nerve will ease-but as it stands-many times they will not go away. sometimes they do case studies and will try to give you medicines to put you in remission from the cluster headaches. [ this kind of headache is EXTREMELY rare.] but it would explain your fear to drive,for not trusting yourself. sometimes the pain of the headache is so intense,it hurts to open your eyes&they water,or you get sick to your stomach,or you cannot tolerate any noise-whatsoever..and yes,driving is out of the question when its that severe. ask your doctor.
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