Migraine
A neurological condition causing intense, often throbbing headaches, sometimes with nausea and light sensitivity.
Overview
Migraine is more than a bad headache — it's a neurological disorder that can cause severe, throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head, along with other symptoms.
Attacks can last hours to days and interfere with daily life. Effective treatments exist to both relieve and prevent attacks.
Symptoms
Common signs and symptoms of migraine.
- Throbbing or pulsing head pain
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Nausea and vomiting
- Visual aura (flashes or blind spots)
- Worsening with physical activity
Causes
What can lead to this condition.
- Genetic predisposition
- Changes in brain chemicals like serotonin
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Certain foods, alcohol, or caffeine
- Stress and sleep changes
Risk factors
Factors that can increase your risk.
- Family history of migraine
- Being female (hormonal influence)
- High stress and poor sleep
Diagnosis
How providers typically confirm this condition.
- Clinical evaluation of headache patterns
- Neurological exam
- Imaging (MRI/CT) only to rule out other causes
- Headache diary to identify triggers
Treatment options
Approaches that help manage or resolve the condition.
- Triptans and other acute migraine medications
- Preventive medications (beta-blockers, CGRP inhibitors)
- Identifying and avoiding triggers
- Rest in a dark, quiet room during attacks
- Stress management and consistent sleep
Prevention
Steps that may help prevent or reduce the condition.
- Keep a regular sleep and meal schedule
- Manage stress
- Stay hydrated and limit known triggers
- Consider preventive medication for frequent attacks
When to see a doctor
- Headaches that disrupt your daily life
- Migraines that increase in frequency or severity
Seek emergency care
- Sudden "worst headache of your life" — call 911
- Headache with fever, stiff neck, confusion, weakness, or vision loss — seek emergency care
Recommended specialists & nearby providers
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Care for migraine is covered by most major insurance plans. Filter providers by your plan on Hippo Intelligence to find in-network options.
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