A majority of people with migraines report severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation in the head. Migraine attacks are distinct in that they occur only on one side of the head. One may also experience nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to sound and light. These attacks can last for a few hours or days. Migraines can interfere with daily activities and decrease productivity.

Types of migraines
You can categorize migraines based on their symptoms and causes into two major types.

1. Common migraines or migraines without aura
 In this type of migraine, you typically experience throbbing pain on one side of the head. It starts with a mild headache, but it can worsen with routine physical activity. The symptoms of common migraines can last up to 4-22 hours.

2. Classic migraines or migraines with aura
Sometimes, you may experience an aura before a full-fledged migraine attack. Migraine aura is a neurological sensation that can occur before or during an attack. Some of the most common warning signs include flashing lights and seeing wavy lines or distorted objects.

In addition to these two types, there are other forms of migraines based on their causes.

1. Menstrual migraine
Many women are prone to migraine attacks during the menstrual cycle. Menstrual migraines are most likely to occur a few days before, during, or immediately after the menstrual cycle.

2. Migraine equivalent
It’s primarily a migraine aura. This type of migraine does not cause a headache. Migraine equivalent is more common beyond the age of 50. One may experience this if they have had migraine episodes at a young age.

3. Complicated migraine
This type of migraine causes a host of symptoms, including numbness, tingling, trouble understanding speech or speaking, or inability to move an arm or leg.

4. Abdominal migraine
Common among children, an abdominal migraine causes vomiting or dizziness with or without a headache.

Treatment methods of migraines
Based on the type of medicine used, treatment options for migraines fall broadly into two categories.

1. Abortive treatment
This is primarily a pain-relief treatment using medications. These include prescription or over-the-counter medicines that help alleviate the symptoms of a migraine attack.

2. Preventive medications
With regular use of medicines, you can prevent frequent migraine attacks. If you suffer from regular, long-lasting, or severe headaches, your doctor may recommend preventive remedies.

Migraine headaches are chronic by nature, and you cannot completely alleviate their symptoms. Nonetheless, abortive and preventive drugs can control them considerably. Adopting a healthier life will also help you to some extent.