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Migraines affect more than 10 percent of people worldwide with women being affected three times more than men. The American Academy of Neurology defines a migraine as “a neurological condition defined by intense head pain, often only on one side, that may occur with other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light, sound, and smells.” Sometimes migraines can also be retriggered by stress, hormonal changes, bright or flashing lights, lack of sleep and certain foods. Additionally, the website Brain & Life website defines a migraine as “a biological disorder of the brain that causes recurring moderate to severe headaches.” While this disorder can affect anyone at any time it is a different experience for many people. Research is currently being undertaken worldwide to better understand the causes and potential treatments for migraines. There is not a lot known about what causes migraines but according to experimental evidence, migraines may be associated with the activation and sensitisation of parts of the brain known as the trigeminovascular system which consists of connections between nerve cells and cerebral blood vessels. Furthermore, for women, migraine can also be related to hormones during their menstrual cycle. Genetic and environmental factors also play a role in migraine. Potential symptoms vary greatly among people with migraine, but can include: moderate to severe headache that lasts 4 to 72 hours (if untreated), throbbing pain (often on one side of the head), increased pain after exercise or movement, sensitivity to bright light, sound, and/or odours, and nausea and/or vomiting with the headache. Additionally, some people may experience other symptoms before the onset of a migraine such as a migraine aura. A migraine aura manifests in three different ways: Vision Disturbances - seeing spots, flashes, zig zags, stars, or even losing sight for short periods of time. Sensory Changes - feeling tingling or numbness in the face, body, hands, and fingers. Speech and Language Problems - unable to produce the right words, slurring, or mumbling words. Although these symptoms differ from person to person, with the proper medical care and self-management migraines are treatable. A key thing to keep in mind is finding the trigger that causes migraines. Once the trigger is identified, medication and steps can be taken to avoid that trigger. Potential triggers include variation in diet, sleep, stress, hormones and environmental factors such as weather changes or high altitude. Lifestyle interventions are important. Many people find they can reduce the number of migraines by keeping fit, managing their stress and making sure they get the right amount of sleep. Different types of medication also play a role in treating migraines. Acute medication, preventative, and pre-emptive medications are all potential treatments for migraines. Professor Debbie Hay Head of Biological Sciences at the University of Auckland says that “in New Zealand, migraine places a substantial burden on individuals, families, and society.” Her lab is currently researching specific proteins that are important to the development of treatments for migraines and other known conditions. What is a Migraine? 1 2 3 6 Headlines