By foggy.brain 
7 Types of Migraines Explained: Let’s first start with what it is. Migraine is a type of headache characterized by moderate to severe pain, often on one side of the head. It is often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and changes in vision. Migraines are believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors and can be triggered by various stimuli such as stress, lack of sleep, certain foods, and hormonal changes. Migraines can be debilitating and interfere with daily activities, and some people may experience aura symptoms before the headache begins. There are several types of migraines, including migraines with aura, migraines without aura, chronic migraines, and others. Treatment for migraines may include medication, lifestyle changes, and alternative therapies.
Types of Migraines
There are several types of migraine, including:
- Migraine with aura – This type of migraine is characterized by temporary visual or sensory disturbances that occur before the headache pain.
- Migraine without aura – This type of migraine is characterized by headache pain without any temporary visual or sensory disturbances.
- Chronic migraine – This type of migraine is characterized by headache pain on 15 or more days per month for more than three months, with at least eight of those headaches being migraines.
- Vestibular migraine – This type of migraine is characterized by dizziness or vertigo (a spinning sensation) as the main symptom, along with headache pain.
- Menstrual migraine – This type of migraine is related to the menstrual cycle and occurs only during or immediately before or after the period.
- Hemiplegic migraine – This is a rare and severe form of migraine that causes temporary paralysis or weakness on one side of the body, along with headache pain.
- Vestibular-Plus syndrome – This type of migraine is characterized by dizziness or vertigo as the main symptom, along with other symptoms such as imbalance, nausea, and hearing problems.
Source of information: International Headache Society (IHS) – https://www.ihs-headache.org/patient-care/classification-and-diagnostic-criteria/
Cause
The exact cause of migraines is not fully understood. They believed to be related to changes in the brain and surrounding blood vessels. Certain triggers, such as stress, lack of sleep, certain foods, and hormonal changes, can exacerbate migraines.
Treatment
Treatment for migraines varies depending on the type and severity of the headache. Common treatments include medication, lifestyle changes, and alternative therapies.
- Pain Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen can provide relief from mild to moderate migraine pain. Prescription pain medications, such as triptans, can also be effective in treating migraines.
- Preventive Medications: These medications are taken regularly to prevent migraines from occurring. Examples of preventive medications include beta-blockers, anticonvulsants, and calcium channel blockers.
- Non-Pharmacological Treatments: Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, stress management, and maintaining a healthy diet, can also help prevent migraines. Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, and biofeedback, may also be effective in treating migraines.
- Self-Care Measures: rest, hydration, and avoiding triggers, can help reduce the severity and frequency of migraines.
- Botox Injections: Botox injections have been approved by the FDA for the preventive treatment of chronic migraines. The injections are given every 12 weeks and can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgical procedures, such as nerve stimulation or nerve blocks, may be recommended to treat migraines.
It is important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. The most effective treatment for migraines may vary from person to person. It may involve a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and alternative therapies.