What is a migraine?
A migraine is a type of headache that is often more intense than a simple “classic” headache. It’s a very real physiological reaction. It can cause pulsating pain, often on just one side of the head, and is accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light, noise or even visual disturbances.
Migraines can last from a few hours to several days, and vary in intensity from person to person.
Symptoms
Migraines often manifest as :
- pulsating or intense pain, usually on one side of the head
- sensitivity to light or noise
- nausea or vomiting
- visual disturbances (aura) in some people
Every migraine can be different, and intensity varies from person to person.
Prevention and healthy living
Adopting good lifestyle habits can reduce the frequency and severity of attacks:
- Sleep regularly and sufficiently
- Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet
- Limit caffeine and alcohol
- Manage stress with relaxation or sport
For some people with frequent migraines, preventive medication prescribed by a doctor may be useful to help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines.
When to consult?
If migraines become more frequent, more intense or change in nature, it’s important to seek medical advice. Tests may be necessary to rule out other causes. Even if your migraines are “classic”, a medical follow-up will help to better adapt prevention and treatment.
It’s worth noting that over-the-counter drugs (acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen) can cause certain types of headache. If headaches persist, it’s best to seek medical advice.
A word from Dr. LeBlanc
The headache calendar is a simple but highly effective tool: it allows you to record the date, duration, intensity and triggers of your migraines. This information helps your doctor to better understand your situation, identify the factors that aggravate your attacks and adjust your prevention or treatment strategies. It’s a small habit that can make a big difference in managing your migraines.
Go to the headache calendar: https://www.migrainequebec.org/fr/calendriers-de-migraine
👉 Make an appointment to discuss your migraines, assess your triggers and establish a personalized prevention and treatment plan.
