Headaches and Migraines

Headaches are a common neurological condition that manifest as pain in any region of the head. They can range from mild to severe and may be acute or chronic. There are various types of headaches, such as tension headaches, cluster headaches, and migraines, each with distinct characteristics. For example, tension headaches often feel like a tight band around the head, while migraines are typically characterized by intense, throbbing pain on one side of the head and may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.

Migraines are a specific category of headache disorder that can severely impact the quality of life of sufferers. Unlike other types of headaches, migraines are often preceded by warning signs called aura, which may include visual disturbances or other neurological symptoms. Migraines are thought to involve complex neurovascular changes, including fluctuations in neurotransmitters and temporary changes in the brain's blood vessels. The precise causes of migraines are not fully understood, but they may involve genetic and environmental factors. Treatment for migraines often includes medications for pain relief and prevention, as well as lifestyle adjustments to reduce exposure to known triggers.