Migraine Basics: Symptoms, Triggers, and Coping

Click a card to learn more about migraines.

Migraine vs. tension headache

A migraine typically causes moderate-to-severe throbbing pain on one side of the head, often worsening with movement and accompanied by sensitivity to light or sound. A tension headache, by contrast, causes a dull, band-like tightness or pressure across the whole head and usually interferes less with daily activities.

When aura symptoms occur

Some migraine sufferers experience an "aura" before the headache begins — such as flashing lights or zigzag patterns in their vision — a pattern known as "migraine with aura." The aura typically fades within tens of minutes before the headache sets in.

Common triggers

Lack of sleep or irregular sleep, certain foods (caffeine, alcohol, chocolate), strong smells or bright lights, stress, and hormonal changes tied to the menstrual cycle in women are known as common migraine triggers.

Helpful coping strategies during an attack

Resting in a dark, quiet room, staying well hydrated, and avoiding your personal triggers are generally considered helpful for easing symptoms once a migraine attack starts.

Chronic migraine and medication-overuse headache

Headaches occurring 15 or more days a month for over 3 months can be classified as chronic migraine, and overusing pain medication too frequently can lead to medication-overuse headache, which actually worsens symptoms — so caution is needed.

When to see a doctor

If your headache pattern suddenly changes, becomes more frequent or severe, or is accompanied by unusual neurological symptoms, see a doctor to rule out other underlying causes.

What migraines are

Migraines are a neurological condition that go well beyond an ordinary headache and can significantly disrupt daily life and work. This page is provided for general informational purposes and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment — if you experience recurring headaches, consult a doctor.

Its link to allergic rhinitis

Headaches accompanied by nasal congestion or sinus pressure are easily mistaken for allergic rhinitis, but they can actually be migraines, so accurate differentiation matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I just tough out migraines with pain medication?

Pain medication can help temporarily relieve symptoms, but using it too often can lead to medication-overuse headache, so if attacks are frequent, it is better to consult a doctor and build a management plan.

Is stress the only cause of migraines?

No — stress is just one of several major trigger factors; sleep, food, and hormonal changes often play a role together as well.