Migraines

 

Migraines are more than just headaches — they are a neurological condition that causes intense, throbbing pain, often on one side of the head, and can last for hours or even days. They may also cause sensitivity to light, sound, and smells, and can bring nausea or visual disturbances. Migraines can disrupt daily life completely.

 

 

Symptoms

 

• Severe throbbing or pulsing head pain

• Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells

• Nausea or vomiting

• Visual disturbances (aura, flashing lights, zig-zag lines, blind spots)

• Fatigue and brain fog after the migraine passes (‘migraine hangover’)

 

Living With Migraines

 

Migraines can end normal daily activities in an instant. Once an attack begins, many people need to stop everything, lie down, and wait for the pain to ease. The unpredictability can cause stress, anxiety, and strain on family life, as well as feelings of guilt about letting others down.

 

“When a migraine hits, my day ends. All I can do is lie down, close my eyes, and hope the pain passes faster than it usually does. The exhaustion afterwards is just as hard to cope with.”

 

Migraines are often misunderstood or overlooked. They can even be misdiagnosed, with sufferers worrying that their symptoms might be something more serious, such as a brain tumour or stroke.

 

Research & Treatments

 

Migraines are thought to involve abnormal brain activity affecting nerve signals, chemicals, and blood vessels. Research continues into their exact causes. Current treatments include:

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• Pain relief (over-the-counter or prescribed)

• Preventative medications (beta blockers, anti-seizure drugs, antidepressants)

• Lifestyle management (identifying triggers, reducing stress, regular sleep patterns) • Emerging treatments such as CGRP inhibitors (new migraine-specific drugs)

 

Support & Links

 

• The Migraine Trust – https://migrainetrust.org

• NHS – Migraine – https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/migraine/

• QuietPower TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@quietpoweruk

 

 

Disclaimer: This page is for support and awareness, not medical advice. Always speak to your GP or a qualified specialist about diagnosis and treatment.