Migraine headaches are common and severe, affecting approximately 30 million Americans, according to the Neurology Channel. Aside from the debilitating pain, migraines can cause nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Not all migraines are the same, though similar symptoms occur with each headache. Some people experience auras, which can affect vision and cause other sensations in the body.
Aura
Auras are uncommon in migraine sufferers, though they were once referred to as common migraines, according to the Mayo Clinic. These neurological disturbances most frequently involve vision changes, causing flashes of light, zig-zag lines or temporary loss of vision to occur. Non-visual auras may also arise, causing weakness, speech difficulties, dizziness or tingling sensations in the face, tongue or extremities. Some individuals may also experience numbness in these areas. All of these symptoms may precede the migraine, serving as warning signs of an emerging migraine attack.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are major side effects accompanying a migraine. Some individuals merely feel sick to their stomach, while others have bouts of vomiting. These symptoms can make it difficult to consume oral medications for migraine pain. Nasal medications and injections for pain may be helpful for those with these symptoms.
Severe Pain
Severe headache pain is the most prevalent effect of a migraine, causing relentless spasms in the head. Some individuals have pain on one side, while others feel pain in the entire head area. The pain may pulsate and throb, worsening with physical activity and becoming more intense with movement. A migraine may last for hours or days if untreated. Some individuals awaken to migraine pain or are unable to fall asleep when an attack strikes. Most individuals who experience chronic migraines need medications to resume their normal activities, as the pain is so severe common tasks become unbearable.
Sensitivity to Light and Sound
Sensitivity to light and sound are other common effects of a migraine, causing many sufferers to retreat to a dark room where noise and light are limited. Seemingly harmless sounds and streams of light can invoke pain among those with sensitivity to light and sound. In addition, some people become sensitive to smells. Perfumes and strong food odors may be bothersome to these individuals.
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