Types of Migraines

Overview

Migraines are a neurological disorder that can cause severe, strong, and intense episodes of headache and other symptoms. There are different types of migraines, each with its own set of symptoms:

• Migraine with aura (classical migraine): This type of migraine is characterized by the presence of an aura, which is a set of sensory disturbances that occur before or during the headache. The aura can include visual disturbances like seeing flashing lights or zigzag lines, as well as other sensory symptoms such as tingling or numbness in the face or hands. These symptoms usually last for about 20 minutes to an hour and are followed by a headache. The headache is typically on one side of the head and is most commonly associated with nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sensitivity to sound.
• Migraine without Aura: This is the most common type of migraine. People with this type experience moderate to severe headaches without any accompanying aura. The headache is often described as throbbing or pulsating and is usually felt on one side of the head. It can last for several hours to a few days and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light (photophobia), and sensitivity to sound (phonophobia).

In addition to these types, there are also less frequently occurring types of migraines, which include:

• Ocular migraine: This type of migraine is characterized by temporary vision loss or visual disturbances such as blind spot in one eye. The vision loss usually lasts for less than an hour and is followed by a headache.
• Vestibular migraine: This type of migraine is associated with dizziness and problems with balance and coordination. People may experience vertigo (a spinning sensation), difficulty walking, and a feeling of being unsteady.
• Hemiplegic migraine: This type of migraine is characterized by temporary paralysis or weakness on one side of the body (hemiplegia) before or during the headache. Other symptoms may include vision changes, difficulty speaking, and confusion. It is important to know that if you do not already have a diagnosis of hemiplegic migraine and have these symptoms they can be signs of a stroke, and you should seek immediate medical attention.
• Hormonal (estrogen-associated) migraine: This type of migraine, sometimes called a Period Migraine, typically begins two to three days before menstruation and is related to changes in estrogen levels.

It's important to note that if you suspect you have migraines or any other health condition, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.