Symptoms
- Throbbing headache, often one-sided
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light, sound or smell
- Visual aura (flashes, zig-zag lines) before headache
Overview
Migraine is a common neurological disorder causing recurrent moderate-to-severe headaches, often on one side, with nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. With the right combination of acute and preventive treatment, most patients achieve excellent control.
Diagnosis
- Detailed history and headache diary review
- Neurological examination
- Imaging (MRI) only when warning features are present
Treatment
- Acute relief medication taken early in the attack
- Preventive medication for frequent attacks
- Trigger identification and lifestyle changes
- Management of medication-overuse headache
Migraine — FAQs
Migraine is a manageable condition rather than one that is permanently cured, but with preventive treatment and trigger control the vast majority of patients become nearly headache-free.
Most migraines are diagnosed clinically and do not need a scan. Imaging is advised only when there are warning features, which the doctor will assess during consultation.