Migraine Headaches

Tension headaches are usually described as a continuous pressure pain or tightness of varying severity over the entire head, whereas migraine headaches are a severe, throbbing pain over one or both temples, or behind one eye or ear, and are often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. A migraine often starts on waking up in the morning, but can occur later in the day and can last hours to one or two days. In individuals with a form of migraine called classic migraine, visual symptoms described as bluriness, dazzling zigzag lines, blind spots or sensitivity to light occur just before and sometimes during the headache. While fatigue and stress can sometimes bring on both tension and migraine headaches, bright lights, noise and alcohol are specific factors that can trigger a migraine.

20 million women in the U.S. suffer from headaches; 9 million of whom suffer debilitating migraines. Over a quarter of women are affected by migraines during their life. Although these headaches are common among both men and women, there are important differences. The prevalence of migraine is 2-3 times higher in women. The character of the headaches also differs. Women tend to report higher levels of pain, longer duration of headaches, and more associated symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting. Visual symptoms are also less common in women.

There is a long recognized association between ovarian hormones and migraine. Over half of women with migraine report an association between their headaches and their menstrual cycle. The frequency and severity of migraine is increased commonly with the use of oral contraceptive pills and during the menopause. In addition, changes in the levels of ovarian hormones and prolactin during pregnancy and breast-feeding may modify the course of a migraine. A better understanding of these changes is leading to better treatment of migraine.