Introduction: What is Migraine?
Migraine is more than just a headache — it’s a neurological condition that causes intense throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. It can last for hours or even days and often interferes with daily activities.
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), migraine is a complex disorder that involves changes in brain activity and blood flow, leading to pain and other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound.
Migraines affect millions of people worldwide — and in India, increasing stress, irregular sleep, and poor lifestyle habits are making this condition more common among both adults and adolescents.
While migraine can be disabling, understanding its phases, types, and triggers can help patients recognize symptoms early and manage them effectively.
Phases of a Migraine Attack
Migraines often develop in four distinct phases, although not everyone experiences all of them.
1. Prodrome Phase (Early Warning Stage)
→ Mood changes (irritability or depression)
→ Fatigue or difficulty concentrating
→ Sensitivity to light or sound
→ Food cravings
→ Frequent yawning or neck stiffness
2. Aura Phase (Sensory Disturbances)
Around 25% of migraine patients experience an aura — a temporary disturbance in vision or other senses. Common aura symptoms include:
→ Flashing or zigzag lights
→ Blind spots or blurred vision
→ Tingling sensations in the hands or face
→ Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
3. Attack Phase (The Headache Stage)
This is the most painful phase and can last anywhere from 4 to 72 hours. The headache is often severe and pulsating, typically on one side of the head.
Other symptoms:
→ Nausea and vomiting
→ Sensitivity to light and sound
→ Dizziness or fainting
→ Pain that worsens with movement
4. Postdrome Phase (Recovery Phase)
→ Once the headache subsides, patients may still feel drained or foggy for up to a day.
→ Common feelings include fatigue, weakness, and difficulty concentrating.
Types of Migraine
1. Migraine Without Aura (Common Migraine)
→ The most frequent type. Throbbing pain on one side, often with nausea and light sensitivity.
2. Migraine With Aura (Classic Migraine)
→ Includes warning symptoms like flashes of light or vision loss before the headache begins.
3. Chronic Migraine
→ Occurs more than 15 days per month for at least three months. Linked to stress, poor sleep, or medication overuse.
4. Vestibular Migraine
→ Causes dizziness, balance problems, and nausea, sometimes without severe head pain.
5. Hemiplegic Migraine
→ Rare and severe, causing temporary weakness or paralysis on one side of the body.
6. Menstrual Migraine
→ Linked to hormonal changes around menstruation. Symptoms may be more severe and longer-lasting.
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Who is More Likely to Have Migraine?
While migraine can affect anyone, certain factors increase the risk:
→ Gender: Women are three times more likely to experience migraine.
→ Family History: If one or both parents have migraines, the risk increases significantly.
→ Age: Migraines often begin in adolescence and peak between ages 25 and 55.
→ Stress: High-stress levels or anxiety trigger migraine episodes.
→ Sleep Issues: Irregular sleep patterns or sleep deprivation increase risk.
→ Diet & Lifestyle: Skipping meals, dehydration, caffeine, and alcohol are common triggers.
How is Migraine Diagnosed and Treated?
Diagnosis
→ Migraine diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, family history, and physical examination.
→ Doctors may perform neurological tests, imaging tests (MRI or CT scans), and use a migraine diary for pattern analysis.
Treatment Options
→There’s no cure for migraine, but effective management can reduce its frequency and severity.
1. Medications for Relief (Acute Treatment)
→ Pain relievers: Paracetamol, NSAIDs (ibuprofen)
→ Triptans: Help constrict blood vessels and block pain pathways
→ Anti-nausea medicines
2. Preventive Medications
→ Beta-blockers (propranolol)
→ Antidepressants (amitriptyline)
→ Anti-seizure drugs (topiramate)
→ CGRP inhibitors – a newer class for prevention
3. Lifestyle Management
→ Maintain a regular sleep schedule
→ Eat balanced meals and avoid triggers
→ Stay hydrated
→ Manage stress through yoga or meditation
→ Exercise regularly
4. Alternative Therapies
→ Acupuncture, biofeedback, and physical therapy may reduce attack frequency.
Why Choose Universal Hospital, Surat for Migraine Treatment?
At Universal Hospital, Surat, we understand how debilitating migraines can be — affecting your work, relationships, and quality of life. Our goal is to help patients achieve long-term relief through personalized migraine management.
Why Patients Trust Universal Hospital:
→ Experienced Neurologists & Headache Specialists
→ Advanced Diagnostic Facilities (MRI, CT, EEG)
→ Customized Treatment Plans combining medication and preventive care
→ Lifestyle & Nutritional Counseling
→ 24/7 Emergency Support
At Universal Hospital, we combine medical expertise, modern technology, and compassionate care to ensure every patient receives the attention they deserve.
Final Thoughts
Migraine is not “just a headache” — it’s a complex neurological disorder that requires proper care. Recognizing the early warning signs, triggers, and phases can help prevent severe attacks.
If you’re struggling with recurrent headaches, sensitivity to light, or nausea, it’s time to consult a migraine specialist.
At Universal Hospital Surat, we provide comprehensive, compassionate, and effective migraine care to help you regain control of your life.
Call-to-Action
Don’t let migraines stop you from living fully.
Call Universal Hospital Surat to book your consultation with our neurologists today.
📍 Universal Superspeciality Hospital beside Jash Infinity, Behind New SMC Building, Civil Cross Road, Khatodara, Surat, India, 395001
📞 +91 90810 82632
🌐 www.universalhospitalsurat.com
