5 Common Questions about Migraines

Migraines are a moderate to severe throbbing pain in the head (usually on one side, but sometimes both), that often includes nausea, dizziness, facial tingling or numbness, visual disturbances, or sensitivity to light, sound, or smell. They can happen as often as several days per week. Each person may have their own combination of symptoms, and they can change from one migraine to the next. 

While no one knows for sure why migraines happen, newer treatments target a specific protein that appears to contribute to migraines. Migraines are much more common in women, which suggests that hormones like estrogen may play a role. A genetic link may also increase your risk, as migraines appear to run in families. Researchers continue to search for the root cause of migraines. 

The good news is that most people with migraines have fewer headaches as they get older. But this is not guaranteed, which is why your doctor will likely recommend treatment now rather than wait.

No. Migraine headaches do not cause any damage to your brain or head, even when they are severe. 

There are now many new medications for migraine treatment, plus a long list of older medications. Each of these medications has worked for someone with migraines. But there is no easy way to identify the best medication for each individual patient, so you may need to try several types to find the right one for you. Doctors normally recommend a migraine-prevention treatment for people who have headaches more than two days a week, and a rescue medication may also be recommended to help treat severe headaches. 

Although there is no definitive test for migraine, neurologists and headache specialists can help sort through your headache symptoms, severity, frequency, and other characteristics to determine whether migraine is the right diagnosis and to recommend a treatment plan.