What Are Migraine Headaches?

Migraine headaches are painful, throbbing headaches that usually last from four to 72 hours. When you have a migraine, it may be so painful that you can't follow your normal routine or do your usual activities. Even though they make you feel bad, migraines do not cause long-term damage. Your physician can help you find treatments to help you manage them.

The National Headache Foundation estimates that 28 million Americans suffer from migraines. More women than men get migraines. Although no one is really sure why, hormonal differences are likely to play a role. A quarter of all women with migraines suffer four or more attacks a month. About one-third of women who get migraines have one to four severe attacks a month. About 40 percent experience one or less than one severe attack a month.

What Causes Migraines?

Experts are not sure. The blood vessels in your brain may get wider or narrower, causing swelling and pain. The chemicals in your brain may change, causing a migraine. Migraines run in families, but it's not clear why some people get migraines and others don't. Certain triggers can also cause migraines.