Migraine

Introduction: Migraine is more than just a headache?

Many people in Africa experience frequent and severe headaches but do not know that they might be suffering from migraines. A migraine is not just any headache, it is a serious brain condition that causes intense pain and other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.

In Africa, migraines affect millions of people. Studies show that about 5-10% of Africans suffer from migraines, with women being three times more likely to have them than men.

Unfortunately, because of a lack of awareness, many people do not seek proper treatment. Some even believe migraines are caused by spiritual attacks or bad luck, which is not true.

Understanding migraines and knowing how to manage them can help you or someone you know live a healthier and pain-free life.

What is a migraine?

A migraine is a condition that affects the brain and causes severe headache attacks. These attacks can last for several hours or even days. It is different from a normal headache because it comes with other symptoms like:

  • Severe pain on one or both sides of the head
  • Throbbing or pulsating pain
  • Sensitivity to light, sound, and smell
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dizziness or feeling weak

Migraines can happen to anyone, including children and older adults. They often run in families, meaning if your parent has migraines, you may also experience them.

How common is migraine in Africa?

Many Africans suffer from migraines, but the condition is often misdiagnosed or ignored. Some people call it “chronic headache” and do not know that it is a medical condition.

  • In Ghana, a study found that about 8% of university students experience migraines frequently.
  • In Nigeria, nearly 6 million people suffer from migraines, but only a few get the right treatment.
  • In South Africa, about 1 in 10 adults experiences migraine attacks.
  • Women are three times more likely to have migraines than men, mostly because of hormonal changes.

If you frequently experience severe headaches, you should not ignore them. Migraines can affect your ability to work, study, and enjoy life.

What does a migraine feel like?

People describe migraine pain in different ways. Some say it feels like:

  • A sharp, pounding pain in the head
  • A throbbing or pulsating sensation
  • A dull but constant headache that won’t go away

The pain usually affects one side of the head, but it can also spread to both sides. Without treatment, migraines can last from 4 hours to 3 days or even longer.

Stages of a migraine attack?

Migraines do not just start suddenly. They happen in stages:

  • Warning signs (prodrome stage): This happens 1-2 days before the migraine starts.

Symptoms include:

  • Feeling tired and weak
  • Craving certain foods
  • Mood changes (feeling sad or irritated)
  • Stiff neck
  • Frequent yawning
  • Aura stage (not in all cases): Some people experience changes in vision or sensation before the headache begins. These may include:
  • Seeing flashes of light or blind spots
  • Feeling tingling in the face, hands, or legs
  • Difficulty speaking clearly
  • Attack stage: This is the actual migraine headache. Symptoms include:
  • Severe head pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Sensitivity to light, sound, and smell
  • Feeling dizzy or weak
  • Recovery stage (postdrome): After the headache, some people feel:
  • Extremely tired
  • Confused or unable to concentrate
  • Muscle pain
  • Mood swings What causes migraines?

The exact cause of migraines is not fully understood, but doctors believe it is caused by abnormal brain activity that affects blood flow and nerve signals.

Common triggers of migraines include:

  • Bright lights or loud noises
  • Extreme weather changes (heat, cold, or air pressure changes)
  • Skipping meals
  • Dehydration (not drinking enough water)
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Lack of sleep or too much sleep
  • Hormonal changes (common in women during menstruation or pregnancy)
  • Strong smells (like perfumes or smoke)
  • Certain foods (e.g., processed meats, caffeine, and alcohol)
  • Medications (such as birth control pills)

Keeping a migraine diary to track what you eat, drink, or do before a migraine attack can help you identify your triggers.

How can you manage migraines?

There is no permanent cure for migraines, but they can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication.

Lifestyle changes

  • Eat healthy foods and avoid skipping meals.
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  • Get enough sleep (at least 6-8 hours per night).
  • Reduce stress through relaxation, prayer, or meditation.
  • Exercise regularly but avoid extreme workouts that can trigger migraines.
  • Limit alcohol and avoid smoking.

Medical treatment

If migraines affect your daily life, a doctor may recommend:

  • Pain relief medications like ibuprofen or paracetamol
  • Prescription migraine medicines to reduce the frequency of attacks
  • Anti-nausea drugs if vomiting is a problem
  • Hormone therapy for women whose migraines are linked to menstruation
  • Counseling or therapy for stress management

When should you see a doctor?

You should visit a doctor if:

  • You have severe headaches more than twice a week.
  • Your headache lasts more than 3 days.
  • You have vision problems, weakness, or confusion.
  • Painkillers do not work for you.
  • Your headaches get worse over time.