Migraine

What is Migraine?

Migraine is much more than a headache — it is a complex neurological condition involving abnormal brain activity that affects nerve signals, chemicals, and blood vessels. Migraine attacks can last from 4 to 72 hours and may progress through four stages: prodrome, aura, headache, and postdrome. About one-third of sufferers experience aura, which includes visual disturbances such as flashing lights or blind spots. In the UAE, migraines are highly prevalent, particularly among working-age adults, and triggers include extreme heat, dehydration, bright sunlight, irregular sleep patterns, and stress from demanding lifestyles.

Symptoms

• ●Intense throbbing or pulsating headache, usually on one side
• ●Nausea and vomiting
• ●Sensitivity to light, sound, and sometimes smell
• ●Visual disturbances (aura) such as flashing lights or zigzag lines
• ●Dizziness or lightheadedness
• ●Fatigue and difficulty concentrating

What Causes Migraine?

The exact cause of migraines is not fully understood, but they are believed to result from abnormal brain activity temporarily affecting nerve signals, chemicals, and blood vessels. Genetics play a significant role, and triggers include hormonal changes, stress, certain foods and drinks, sensory stimuli, weather changes, and sleep disruptions.

Risk Factors

• ⚠Family history of migraines
• ⚠Female sex — three times more common in women
• ⚠Hormonal changes, especially during menstruation
• ⚠High stress levels
• ⚠Irregular sleep patterns
• ⚠Dehydration especially in hot climates

How to Prevent Migraine

While migraines cannot be completely prevented, you can reduce their frequency by maintaining a regular sleep schedule, staying hydrated, managing stress, identifying and avoiding personal triggers, and exercising regularly. Keeping a headache diary helps identify patterns and triggers.

When to Get Tested

Consult a doctor and get tested if you have frequent or severe headaches, headaches that change in pattern, or headaches accompanied by neurological symptoms to rule out secondary causes.

References & Sources

• [1]
  WHO — Headache DisordersAccessed: 2026-02-24
• [2]
  Mayo Clinic — MigraineAccessed: 2026-02-24
• [3]
  NHS — MigraineAccessed: 2026-02-24