Headaches are among the most common health complaints—hardly anyone escapes them. One particular type, migraine, is not just a headache but a neurological condition that can be deeply disruptive.

Migraine is a neurovascular disorder. The pain usually begins on one side of the head and gradually spreads across that area. Along with throbbing pain, patients may also experience nausea or flashes of light in their vision.

There are several types of migraines: migraine with aura, migraine without aura, hemiplegic migraine, retinal migraine, chronic migraine, and migraine with brainstem aura. The term ‘aura’ refers to neurological symptoms—such as flashing lights, blurred vision, slurred speech, or difficulty finding words—that appear before or during an attack.

Causes and triggers-
The exact cause of migraine is still not fully understood. However, abnormal brain activity, hormonal fluctuations, irregular sleep, sleep deprivation, sudden overexertion, erratic eating habits, dehydration, excessive tea or coffee intake, and environmental changes are known triggers. Women tend to experience migraine more frequently than men.

There is no definitive cure for migraine yet. Most treatments focus on symptom management. However, lifestyle adjustments can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of attacks:

1. Maintain a regular sleep routine.
2. Follow fixed meal timings.
3. Avoid harsh sunlight and extreme cold.
4. Steer clear of overly bright or dim lighting.
5. Stay hydrated.
6. Apply a cold compress during headaches.
7. Ensure adequate rest.
8. Include calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium-rich foods in the diet.
9. Women should take extra care during menstrual cycles.
10. Limit exposure to loud, noisy environments.
11. Reduce screen time and avoid long hours on phones, computers, or televisions.
12. Cut down on tea, coffee, and carbonated soft drinks.

By practicing these habits, patients can often gain greater control over their migraine symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

If you suffer from migraine, pay close attention to the factors around you that may trigger it. Notice whether certain changes in your daily routine ease or worsen the pain, and identify the foods that may increase your susceptibility to attacks.

Since migraine triggers vary from person to person, greater awareness and careful observation can help you recognize your own specific causes. Staying alert and following preventive measures can go a long way toward keeping symptoms under control.

However, if your headaches become severe or persist for a long time, you should seek professional medical advice without delay.

Stay healthy, stay aware.