Migraines are recurring headaches that usually affect one side of the head and may last hours to days. This condition is quite prevalent. In 2021, 4.3% of adults aged 18 and older reported experiencing considerable discomfort from headaches or migraines within the previous three months. June is celebrated as migraine awareness month each year. On this occasion, let us step toward eliminating chronic migraine by learning more about its symptoms, causes, and treatment.
Migraine disorder varies per its spectrum. Commonly characterized by severe, throbbing headache episodes, migraines can be episodic or chronic. While episodic migraines occur between 0 - 14 times, chronic migraines may show up more than 15 times within a month.
The stages and symptoms of chronic migraine are similar to episodic migraines. It can be categorized into three phases. Here’s a detailed explanation of each phase:
1. Prodrome Phase:
| Duration | Symptoms | Purpose | |
|
Prodrome (Pre- Headache Stage) |
Hours to days before the migraine attack |
|
A warning sign that migraine is imminent |
2. Migraine Attack:
| Duration | Symptoms | |
| Migraine Attack | A few hours to several days |
|
3. Postdrome Phase:
| Duration | Symptoms | Purpose | |
|
Postdrome (Post Headache Stage) |
A day after the migraine attack ends |
|
A recovery phase is when the body slowly returns to its normal state, but some residual symptoms might linger. |
A migraine is different from a headache because it directly affects the overall routine and functioning of the body. Tension headaches can impact one’s head and face area, while migraines affect brain operations and occur in recurring patterns. A detailed comparison is shown below:
| Aspect | Headache | Migraine |
| Types | Tension headaches | Episodic migraines |
| Cluster headaches | Chronic migraines | |
| Pain Intensity | Generally mild to moderate | Moderate to severe, often debilitating |
| Pain Location | Both sides of the head around the head | Usually unilateral, pulsating, or throbbing |
| Related Symptoms |
Dull pain in the head, neck, or back |
|
| Duration | Few minutes to several hours | Several hours to several days |
| Triggers |
|
|
| Effects | Less debilitating, allowing for the continuation of daily activities with some discomfort | Highly debilitating, often requiring rest in a dark, quiet room, significantly impacting daily activities and quality of life. |
Chronic migraines can profoundly affect various aspects of a person's daily life, from professional responsibilities to personal relationships and overall well-being. Here are some of the significant impacts:
Migraine pain can be painful and affect one's ability to perform daily activities by impairing focus and clarity.
The symptoms like nausea and sensitivity to light and temperature make it difficult to engage in social activities.
Feelings of frustration, helplessness, and irritability are common as individuals struggle to manage their pain and maintain a sense of normalcy.
Anticipation of sudden attacks can cause anxiety, and persistent pain can lead to depression.
Chronic migraines can disrupt daily routines and strain personal relationships
Migraine can make it challenging for individuals to lead a comfortable life. Identifying the potential triggers can help manage this condition.
Research shows that women are three times more prone to migraines as compared to men. Chronic migraine can also run in families where there is a genetic disposition to this neurological condition. In any case, migraine headaches can affect one’s ability to function better. Finding relevant management is essential to control it.
Chronic migraine treatment involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, medications, and other strategies to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. Here are some practical tips:
Healthy eating habits, stress management techniques (yoga, meditation, and regular exercise), and regular exercise can help manage chronic migraines.
If your migraines are more frequent, finding preventive medications can help manage the symptoms.
Maintaining a migraine diary of potential triggers and symptoms can assist in managing and tracking them.
Eating a healthier diet rich in nutrients and maintaining proper hydration can help avoid frequent headaches.
Educating family members and friends about migraine symptoms can help control them at school or work.
Chronic migraine is a common neurological disorder that can significantly impact daily life, normal brain function, and cognitive abilities. Managing this condition requires regular care and immediate attention. 8-2-8 Urgent Care is your trusted healthcare destination for finding quality treatment for chronic migraines.
Raising awareness about chronic migraines is crucial for improving the lives of those affected. Some ways to garner attention for migraine can be:
Public education campaigns and personal advocacy can help dispel myths and foster empathy and understanding for chronic migraines.
Supporting organizations that fund migraine research and participating in clinical trials can also contribute to scientific progress.
Policy changes at the workplace, in healthcare, and in insurance coverage can improve the quality of life for those with chronic migraines.
If you have been getting regular or severe migraine attacks that are impacting your personal and professional life, you must seek medical intervention immediately.
At 8-2-8 Urgent Care, our team of experienced professionals strive to help you live a life free of pain. We can provide immediate attention for chronic migraines. Contact us today, and our staff will walk you through our self check-in from the convenience of your home! Call (760) 216-6253.
Content Sources: CDC, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
