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Migraine and Headache Awareness Month

It’s migraine and headache awareness month. This invisible illness is more than just a headache; it is a neurological disease that can leave you incapacitated for days. Migraine is an important public health issues affecting 1 billion people globally. Still, some doctors think the figures are low because many people with migraines are usually not diagnosed. As a means of creating awareness on this issue, here are frequently asked questions on migraine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Migraine  

What is migraine?

According to Mayo clinic, a migraine is a headache capable of causing severe throbbing or a pulsing sensation usually on one side of the head. It is normally accompanied by nausea, vomiting and strong sensitivity to light and sound. It can last for hours to days, and the pain can be severe that it prevents you from carrying out your normal daily routines.

How common is migraine?

Being an important public health problem with a billion populations suffering from the disorder, this makes migraine the third most common illness in the world. However, it is more common and burdensome for women, especially women of childbearing age- a factor believed to be a result of hormonal changes.  

Who are at increased risk of getting migraine?

Some people are more prone to having migraine than others. Below are people at higher risk of having this issue.

• Women.
• Between the ages of 18-44.
• With a family history of migraines.
• Have depression, anxiety, and sleep issues.
• Living below poverty line and those unemployed.

What are the symptoms of migraine?

The most common symptoms of migraines are:

• Blind spots in vision.
• Seeing bright flashing dots, or sparkles.
• Seeing wavy lines.
• Numb or tingling skin.
• Speech changes.
• Temporary vision loss.
• Tinnitus.
• Changes in smell or taste.

How can I stop a migraine?

According to experts, the most crucial factor in stopping a headache is early recognition. The earlier it is recognized, the more likely the treatment will work. Have a treatment plan in place, work out the things you will do when it occurs; and ensure you have always your medication with you- prescribed by a neurologist.