MIGRAINE

The term migraine refers to periodic, throbbing headaches on one side of the head, which usually begins in childhood or adolescence, and occur with diminishing frequency during advancing years. Sometimes, along with the headache, nausea and vomiting may actually disable the affected individual for several hours each time the migraine occurs. Some variations are seen. Many are forced to lie down and to shun light and noise for what they call a “sick headache.” Other milder forms do not require withdrawal from accustomed activities. Between attacks the migraine sufferer is essentially normal. In fact, the headache seems to be brought on during the “let down” period after many days of hard work or stress. Spasm in the blood vessels has been implicated
and many powerful hormones are often released that perpetuate discomfort
for several hours.