Migraine: Symptoms, causes and home remedies to treat the ailment

Migraine is a complex neurological condition that significantly impacts the overall health and quality of life of those affected. It is characterized by recurrent episodes of moderate to severe throbbing and pulsating pain, typically on one side of the head.

The pain can be debilitating, often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. These attacks can last for hours or even days, causing substantial interference with daily activities.

The onset of a migraine can sometimes be predicted by an aura, which may manifest as visual disturbances like blurry vision, zigzag lines, or stars. However, not all individuals experience this warning phase. Migraines are triggered by various factors, including hormonal changes, stress, alcohol consumption, weather changes, and sleep deprivation. Common misdiagnoses include anxiety disorders, tension headaches, strokes, and sinus infections, highlighting the complexity of accurately identifying migraine.

Research has shown that migraines can have long-term effects on the brain. Studies have found white matter lesions and abnormalities in the brains of those with migraine, particularly in individuals diagnosed with migraine with aura.

These changes may increase the risk of stroke and cognitive decline, although the exact relationship between chronic migraine and persistent cognitive dysfunction remains controversial. Furthermore, migraine has been linked to an increased risk of several comorbid conditions, such as depression, anxiety, panic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and movement disorders like Parkinson's disease and Restless Leg Syndrome.

The socioeconomic impact of migraine is also significant, with increased healthcare costs, loss of workplace productivity, and potential job loss due to the chronic nature of the condition.

The stigma associated with migraine can lead to misdiagnosis and suboptimal treatment, exacerbating the challenges faced by sufferers. While migraine is considered a primary headache disorder with no known underlying cause, it is associated with serious health risks, including stroke, brain scarring, heart defects like patent foramen ovale (PFO), and other medical conditions.

Chronic migraineurs report compromised physical, mental, and social functioning, with a higher frequency of attacks leading to greater impairment. In summary, migraine is not just a headache; it is a serious health issue that can affect virtually every part of the body and significantly diminish a person's quality of life.

It requires proper management and understanding from healthcare providers, employers, and society to support those living with this challenging condition.