subject: What Do We tend to Mean by a Migraine Headache? [print this page] Current thinking is that the condition results from the interaction of certain brain chemicals, like serotonin, with the nerve cells. At this time however the reality is that we tend to very do not understand what cause migraines.There are of course two different varieties of the condition, the primary of that is known as 'classical migraine', which is characterized by an associated 'aura'. During this case the term 'aura' is used to talk over with visual lightweight effects which are experienced immediately previous to the onset of a headache together with such things as bright lightweight spots and flashing lights. In an exceedingly few people a complete loss of vision can be experienced for some minutes before the arrival of the headache.The second type of the condition is merely a migraine while not the previous symptoms of an 'aura'.Just as we tend to don't very apprehend what causes a migraine, thus too we have a tendency to have terribly little plan regarding simply what triggers an attack, although there are a number of things which do seem doubtless to trigger an attack in sufferers. As an example, obtaining too much sleep seems to be one factor, as does skipping meals or eating bound types of food like cheese.Hormonal factors also are thought to influence both the onset and severity of attacks and one piece of evidence for this is the upper incidence of migraines among women. This in part is thought to be as a result of estrogen affects the blood vessels and it has been noted in some studies that there is a association between the contraceptive pill (that contains estrogen) and migraine headaches.Simply to confuse matters but, studies have additionally shown that easy everyday activities like walking up stairs will trigger an attack, as can exposure to heat or cold, loud noises, flashing lights and even stress.Happily, there are several medical treatments offered today, although no single treatment has proved to be very effective in all cases. Over-the-counter medications are however rarely effective and, if you suffer from migraines, you're best advised to hunt the assistance of your physician in finding a answer which works for you.