Debunking Common Misconceptions About Migraines

Dr. Akash Santosh Prabhu January 23, 2025

A migraine is a severe headache that causes throbbing, pulsing pain, typically on one side of the head. The headache phase of a migraine usually lasts at least four hours, but it can persist for days. The pain worsens with physical activity, bright lights, and loud noises, among other triggers. Globally, headache disorders, including migraines, are among the most common nervous system disorders, ranked third (after stroke and dementia) in terms of overall neurological disease burden. In this article, we’ll explore the causes and symptoms of migraines, while also dispelling some common myths associated with the condition.

Understanding Migraine Causes

Migraine headaches are complex and happen when nerves in the blood vessels send pain signals to the brain, releasing inflammatory substances into the nerves and blood vessels of the head. While the exact reason why migraine headaches occur is not fully understood, it is believed that genetics play a significant role in triggering this process, leading to the pain and other symptoms associated with migraines.

Busting Myths About Migraines

The following are some of the common myths surrounding migraine headaches.
Myth 1: Migraines Are Caused Only Due To Stress Fact: While stress can certainly trigger a migraine, it is not the sole cause of the condition. Migraines are believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. In addition to stress, other migraine triggers include excessive physical activity, changes in weather patterns, hormonal fluctuations, and the use of certain medications.
Myth 2: Only Women Get Migraine Headaches Fact: While migraines are more common in women, with a global prevalence of 20.7% in women compared to 9.7% in men, it's a common myth that only women experience migraines. Migraines, irrespective of sex and gender, can impact anyone. Although women tend to report longer durations of migraine attacks compared to men, the frequency and intensity of migraines are similar for both. Regardless of gender, migraine headaches require proper treatment to manage and alleviate symptoms effectively.

Myth 3: Migraines Are Just Bad Headaches Fact: A common myth about migraines is that they are just severe headaches. However, migraines are much more than that and often come with a variety of symptoms. The symptoms of migraine can include nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and sometimes dizziness or fainting, in addition to the throbbing pain that can last from hours to days. Headaches can occur for various reasons, such as stress or dehydration, but migraines involve a more complex set of symptoms and require proper treatment. Understanding the full scope of migraine symptoms is crucial to avoid underestimating their impact, as each attack can negatively affect the nerve cells in the brain.
Myth 4: Migraines Are Always Triggered By Food Fact: While certain foods can trigger migraines in some people, they are not the primary cause of the condition. Common migraine triggers include processed foods, alcohol, caffeine, and fermented or pickled items. However, it’s important to remember that food triggers can vary greatly from person to person, and not everyone with migraines will experience food as a trigger. In many cases, migraines are caused by a combination of factors such as disrupted sleep patterns, hormonal changes, shifts in weather, or dehydration. Thus, understanding all potential triggers can make a significant difference in managing migraine attacks effectively.
Myth 5: Migraines Are Not A Serious Medical Condition Fact: Migraines are often dismissed as just a headache, which is a common myth that underestimates their true impact. In reality, migraines are one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, headache disorders, including migraines, affect approximately 40% of the global population. The pain, nausea, and other symptoms can disrupt individuals’ ability to work, or engage in everyday activities. Migraine headaches are a serious medical condition that can drastically affect a person’s quality of life. In addition to the physical symptoms, migraines can also lead to other health challenges, such as depression and anxiety, highlighting the need for proper treatment and management.

Symptoms Of Migraine

The symptoms of migraine can differ from person to person, and their intensity or duration may change with each episode. The following are some of the major symptoms of a migraine headache.

Intense, throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head
Nausea and vomiting
Sensitivity to light
Sensitivity to sound
Blurred vision
Dizziness
Fatigue
Difficulty concentrating
Tingling or numbness in the face

The Final Word

Migraines are a complex neurological condition that go beyond regular headaches. Debunking common misconceptions is key to raising awareness about the true nature of migraines and the significant impact they have on people's lives. While migraines may not always be preventable or curable, there are effective ways to manage the condition and reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. It is crucial for those who suffer from migraines to seek proper medical guidance, identify triggers, and explore the right treatment options to lead a more comfortable and fulfilling life.

FAQs

Is a migraine headache curable?

While there is no definitive cure for migraine headaches, consulting a healthcare provider and making lifestyle adjustments can significantly help manage and reduce the impact of migraines.

Why does migraine headache occur?

Migraine headaches occur when the brain’s nerve cells become overstimulated, leading to abnormal electrical activity. This disrupts blood flow and triggers pain, nausea, and other symptoms.