The extreme pain and discomfort from a migraine headache can cause you to miss work, school or a relaxing evening with your family. Migraine headaches are quite common, although more prevalent among women than men. According to a 2007 article in Journal Watch Neurology, 17.1 percent of females and 5.6 percent of males suffer from migraine headaches. Although many types of headaches are common, it is important for your physician to diagnose a specific type in order to prescribe the proper treatment.
Aura
An aura is a group of symptoms that occur before the actual headache. According to the Mayo Clinic, most people do not experience auras. They include changes of vision, numbness or tingling, feelings of elation or intense energy, craving for sweets, thirst, drowsiness, irritability, or depression. Auras vary among people and may consist of other symptoms not on this list.
Pain
The intensity of pain from a migraine headache can be severe. The pain can be on one or both sides of your head, throbbing or pulsating in nature and worsens with physical activity, according to the Mayo Clinic. The pain can also prevent you from completing your daily tasks. Pain is common in many types of headaches; however, the pain of migraines tends to be more severe.
Sensitivity
According to the Mayo Clinic, sensitivity to light and sound is a common sign correlated with migraines. This may cause you to seek dark rooms and avoid sound. This may help lower the intensity of your headache, because you're reducing the sensory input to your brain. Do not hesitate to call 911 or seek immediate medical attention if you have a severe headache. Always be aware of a headache that you are experiencing that you have never experienced before.
