Migraine Headache FAQs

1. A Visual Guide to Migraine Headaches Slideshow Pictures
2. Headache and Migraine Triggers Slideshow Pictures
3. Take the Migraines Quiz

• What are migraine headaches?
• How dangerous are migraine headaches?
• What causes migraine headaches?
• What are the symptoms of migraine headaches?
• Who gets migraine headaches?
• Should a person with migraine headaches see a doctor?
• What tests are done for people with migraine headaches?
• How are migraine headaches treated?
• What can be done to prevent migraine headaches?
• Will migraine headaches eventually go away on their own?
• For More Information
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• Synonyms and Keywords
• References
• Authors and Editors

Migraines are disabling headaches that most likely stem from problems with the nerves and blood vessels in the head. Migraine headaches typically last from 4-72 hours. They may occur as often as several times a week to only once a year. People who have migraines are called migraineurs.

Migraine headaches affect about 15% of the population. Three times as many women as men have migraines. Over 80% of migraineurs have family members who have migraines. The following types of migraine headache have been identified:

• Migraine without aura (common migraine): This type accounts for 80% of migraine headaches. There is no aura before a common migraine.
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• Migraine with aura (classic migraine): This type is usually preceded by an aura and is usually much worse than a common migraine.Most often, an aura is a visual disturbance (outlines of lights or jagged light images).
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• Status migrainosus: This is the term used to describe a long-lasting migraine that does not go away by itself.

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