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NeurologicalICD-10: G43Affects about 1 billion people worldwide; approximately 39 million in the US

Migraine

Also known as: Migraine Headache, Migraine with Aura, Migraine without Aura

Migraine is a complex neurological condition characterized by intense, throbbing headaches that can last from 4 to 72 hours and are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Some migraines are preceded by aura — visual disturbances such as flashing lights or blind spots. Migraine is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide.

Symptoms

Intense, pulsating headache usually on one side of the head
Nausea and vomiting
Extreme sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Sensitivity to sound (phonophobia)
Visual aura such as zigzag lines or blind spots
Tingling or numbness in the face or extremities
Dizziness or vertigo
Fatigue and difficulty concentrating
Neck stiffness

Causes

  • Abnormal brainstem activity and cortical spreading depression
  • Genetic predisposition (migraine tends to run in families)
  • Trigeminal nerve activation and release of inflammatory neuropeptides (CGRP)
  • Hormonal fluctuations, especially estrogen changes

Risk Factors

  • Female sex (3 times more common in women)
  • Family history of migraine
  • Hormonal changes (menstruation, pregnancy, menopause)
  • High stress levels and poor sleep
  • Age 15–55
  • History of depression or anxiety

Diagnosis

  • Clinical diagnosis based on ICHD-3 criteria and headache history
  • Neurological examination
  • MRI or CT scan to exclude secondary causes
  • Headache diary to identify triggers and patterns

Treatment

  • Acute: triptans (sumatriptan, rizatriptan), NSAIDs, or gepants
  • Anti-nausea medications (metoclopramide, ondansetron)
  • Preventive: beta-blockers, topiramate, amitriptyline, or valproate
  • CGRP monoclonal antibodies (erenumab, fremanezumab, galcanezumab)
  • Neuromodulation devices (Cefaly, gammaCore)
  • Lifestyle modifications and trigger avoidance

Prevention

  • Identify and avoid personal triggers (certain foods, alcohol, stress)
  • Maintain consistent sleep and meal schedules
  • Regular aerobic exercise
  • Stress management through mindfulness or biofeedback
  • Preventive medication if experiencing 4+ migraine days per month

When to See a Doctor

  • New or worst-ever headache (thunderclap headache)
  • Headache with fever, stiff neck, confusion, or seizures
  • Aura lasting longer than 60 minutes or weakness on one side
  • Migraines that increase in frequency or severity despite treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Tension Headache

Neurological

Nausea and Vomiting

Digestive

Depression

Mental Health

Related from the Supplement Library

Magnesium Glycinate

Strong

Mineral · Improves sleep quality and onset

Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)

Strong

Vitamin · Energy production as FAD coenzyme

CoQ10 (Ubiquinone)

Strong

Compound · Mitochondrial energy production (ATP)

Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)

Strong

Fatty Acid · Cardiovascular health (TG reduction, anti-arrhythmic)

These supplements have been studied in relation to Migraine. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications.

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Content reviewed against peer-reviewed medical literature and clinical guidelines. Read our editorial standards.