Migraines are headaches of a severe and chronic nature. They are usually accompanied by nausea, vomiting and visual disturbances which can last from up to a few hours to a few days. Pain is located on one side of head: The pain usually begins on one side of the head, at the temple, and can spread downward to the eye, face, and even neck.
The exact cause of a migraine is not known. It tends to run in families and this family history of migraine may be one cause of the headache. Vascular theory states that a migraine is a disturbance of blood flow to the head.
An aura of migraine is a single symptom or set of symptoms the patient sometimes experiences immediately before the onset of a headache. It can serve as a warning that a headache will follow. It may consist of visual symptoms, hearing, smells or unusual odors. This is a brain dysfunction that can result in strange sensations all over the body.
Because auras are almost always associated with migraines, the migraine triggers (inducers) may also be responsible for auras. These triggers typically include stress, fatigue or exposure to bright lights or unusual smells.
Many times, migraine headaches are preceded by some sort of visual disturbance known as an aura. They usually occur anywhere minutes to hours before the pain of a migraine starts. These symptoms typically last for anywhere from 10 to 25 minutes. The aura may occur without actual pain, and in these cases it is known as a migraine equivalent.
Visual changes can occur in one or both eyes. They can include one or more of the following:
and Zigzag lines
and Flashing lights
and Visual hallucinations
and Temporary blind spots (scotomas)
and Light sensitivity(photophobia)
and Blurred vision
and Eye pain
A migraine may not be accompanied by a classic aura, but a number of other symptoms may signal the onset of a migraine headache.
and Loss of appetite
and Nausea
and Vomiting
and Chills
and Increased urination
and Increased sweating
and Swelling of the face
and Irritability
and Fatigue
