Migraine
Also called migraine, headache, sir dard, half head pain, aadha sir dard
What this condition is
Migraine is more than an ordinary headache. It is a condition of the brain and nerves that causes attacks of throbbing pain, often on one side of the head, which can be quite disabling. Attacks may come with nausea and a sensitivity to light and sound. Some people get warning signs beforehand, such as flashing lights in the vision. Migraine can disrupt work and family life, which is genuinely hard. The good news is that with the right treatment, by learning your triggers and sometimes with preventive medicine, attacks can become fewer and easier to manage.
Signs to watch for
- Throbbing or pulsing pain, often on one side of the head
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Pain that worsens with movement
- Visual warning signs like flashes or zig zag lines in some people
What to do
- Take your migraine medicine early in an attack as advised
- Rest in a quiet, dark room during an attack
- Keep regular meal and sleep times
- Stay well hydrated
- Keep a diary to identify your triggers
What to avoid
- Do not skip meals or sleep, as these can trigger attacks
- Avoid overusing painkillers, which can cause more headaches
- Avoid your known triggers where possible
- Do not push through bright light and noise during an attack
Ways to feel better day to day
- Identify and gently reduce common triggers like stress and certain foods
- Build a steady daily routine for meals, sleep and breaks
- Practice relaxation, deep breathing or yoga
- Limit screen glare and take regular eye breaks
- Stay active with moderate exercise on good days
Speak to a doctor if
- The worst headache of your life, coming on suddenly
- Headache with fever, neck stiffness, confusion or a rash
- Weakness, numbness, slurred speech or vision loss
- Headaches that are becoming more frequent or severe
- A new headache after the age of 50 or after a head injury
Your next step
Turn this into a plan that is yours
Everything above is general. Your dose, your targets and your test schedule depend on your age, your reports and the other conditions you live with.
