Understanding Migraines: What Your Headache Is Trying To Tell You

If you’ve ever had a pounding headache that made you want to crawl into a dark room and avoid all noise and light, you might have experienced a migraine. Migraines are not just awful headaches, they are something more intense, more debilitating and can affect people’s activities of daily living when they occur.

What Is A Migraine?

A migraine is what we call a neurological condition which means it is a disorder of the brain. Migraines usually involve:

• Throbbing or pulsing pain, often on one side of the head
• Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sometimes, strange warning signs called auras (like flashing lights, blind spots, or tingling feelings) before the headache starts

Migraine attacks can last from a few hours to several days. Some people get migraines infrequently while some get them frequently.

Causes Of Migraines

No one knows the exact cause, but we do know there are certain triggers that can bring on a migraine. These include:

• Stress
• Lack of sleep or sleeping too much
• Hormonal changes, especially in women during menstruation and perimenopause/menopause
• Certain foods like chocolate, cheese and processed meats
• Caffeine (either too much or suddenly stopping it)
• Bright lights, loud sounds, or strong smells
• Skipping meals

Everyone’s triggers are different, so it can take some trial and error to figure out what causes your migraines.

How Do You Know If It Is A Migraine Or A Regular Headache?

A regular headache tends to be usually mild and doesn’t stop you from going about your day. Migraines, on the other hand, often:

• Feel more intense and painful
• Come with other symptoms like nausea or sensitivity to light/sound
• Can last longer
• May require you to lie down in a dark, quiet room

If your headaches are strong and frequent, it’s worth talking to a doctor — especially if they affect your daily life. Here, at Chelmsford Private GPs, we are here to help.

Treating And Preventing Migraines

Here are some common ways to manage migraines:

1. Lifestyle Changes
   • Keeping a regular sleep schedule and ensuring adequate sleep
   • Staying hydrated
   • Eating regular meals and avoiding trigger foods
   • Managing stress through yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises
2. Medications
   • Pain relievers like ibuprofen
   • Prescription migraine medications that help stop or prevent attacks
   • Preventive medication for people who get migraines often
3. Other Treatments
   • Acupuncture, massage, or physiotherapy
   • Botox injections for chronic migraines

When To See A Doctor

You should talk to a doctor if:

• Your headaches are happening very frequently
• They are very painful and last a long time
• They wake you up at night
• Over-the-counter medications are not helping
• You notice new or unusual symptoms

Migraines can be frustrating and sometimes scary, but they’re treatable and you're not alone. Millions of people live with migraines, and with the right approach, migraines can be successfully managed. If you have been plagued with migraines and would like to receive treatment and support, please contact Chelmsford Private GPs on 01245 203838