Migraine tablets

Migraines affect 1 in 5 women and 1 in 15 men, usually starting in early adulthood. They can last from 4-72 hours and can happen once a year or once a week. Usually diagnosed by a doctor, the types vary between a migraine with aura, migraine without aura and migraine aura without headache (silent headache).

Common symptoms of a migraine include a severe headache that is often on one side of the head, vomiting or nausea, increased sensitivity to light, sound and smells and an aura (seeing flashing lights or opaque spots).

Although no clear cause has been established, migraines are thought to be the result of temporary changes in the chemicals, nerves and blood vessels in the brain. Around 1/2 have a close relative with the condition, suggesting that genes may play a role.

There are common triggers that can bring one on. These will vary from person to person, but can include physical and emotional stress, tiredness, missing a meal, drinking caffeine or alcohol, and foods containing tyramine (cured meats, some cheeses and yeast extracts). Also, bright lights, loud noises and changes in climate.