ABC Migraine - Causes, Symptoms, and Therapy for Migraine Pain
Max Müller
2026-03-21
3 min. read
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In our rapidly changing life, we often complain of exhaustion and recurring headaches, however, how does one differentiate a migraine from a common headache? How can one find relief during a migraine attack?
Is it truly a migraine and what are its symptoms?
Migraine is a long-term ailment characterized by frequent recurring, one-sided headache attacks that cause nausea, vomiting, and restrict daily activity. There are two types of migraine: without prodromal symptoms and with accompanying prodromal symptoms. In the case of migraine with prodromal symptoms, symptoms preceding the attack include restlessness, localized lack of strength, depression, or a state of euphoria, drowsiness, and worsening of well-being. Migraine without prodromal symptoms is the most commonly encountered form.
The reasons behind migraine pain
Research conducted on migraine sufferers has shown that the disease is familial in most cases, indicating that genetics and heredity play a significant role. Unfortunately, the cause of this condition has not yet been fully understood. It is believed that a key factor influencing the development of severe pain is the release of serotonin - the neurotransmitter responsible for blood vessel tension in the brain. This leads to contraction and subsequent relaxation of the blood vessels that are perceived as migraine pain. Migraines most commonly affect women aged 25-55 years. People with hypothyroidism, hypertension, obesity, and sleep disorders are more prone to developing this condition.
How to effectively manage and treat migraines?
Individuals experiencing seizure-like, pulsating headaches should avoid intense stimuli that can exacerbate pain. Migraine sufferers are more sensitive to any sounds, intense ones, and, in some cases, even daylight, which can cause discomfort. It is also advisable to be cautious of all odors, such as perfumes, deodorants, or kitchen aromas, which can intensify nausea. Unfortunately, there is no effective cure for this condition. In the initial stages of migraine symptoms, standard painkillers can be used, however, these remedies do not yield expected results after a certain period. It is recommended to visit a doctor who can prescribe stronger medications and verify if the migraine is not a symptom of another disease. During a migraine attack, it is best to apply a cold compress to the forehead.
Local remedies for migraines
During the onset of a migraine attack, it is most advisable to lie down in a dim, peaceful room, where fresh air is accessible. One can apply a cool compress to the forehead. Additionally, medicinal herbs can be employed - an infusion of chamomile or a tincture of coltsfoot should mitigate the pain.
Diet during a migraine episode
Few people associate migraine headaches with the foods we consume. However, some foods and products not only do not help us, but they can also trigger migraines. If we are dealing with frequent, episodic headaches, we should avoid red, sour wine, strong coffee, chocolate, marinades, alcohol, and especially moldy cheese. Why? They contain harmful substances that can cause sudden narrowing of blood vessels in the brain. The cause of migraine can also be due to the use of chemicals such as nitrates and nitrites, which are widely used in the production of meat and processed meats, especially smoked and cured meats. A dangerous chemical that we should avoid is monosodium glutamate, which often appears in fast-food products. Instead of these products, we should choose lean meats and processed meats, avoid spicy seasonings and prepared meals. Fats should be limited and replaced with healthy fish. However, it is always important to pay attention to our body and exclude those products that exacerbate headaches after consumption.
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