When is pain more than a headache?

Spot the signs that you're suffering from a migraine, says CAMILLA FOSTER

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THE occasional headache is usually a mild, short-lived annoyance - but when the pain becomes intense and lingers it could indicate something more serious, like a migraine.

Here, Debbie Shipley, head of information and support at The Migraine Trust, shares insights into what truly sets migraines apart from a normal headache.

What causes migraine attacks?

“Migraine is a complex neurological condition that is understood to be the result of abnormal brain activity affecting nerve signals, chemicals and blood vessels in the brain,” explains Debbie. “While there may be individual triggers for migraine attacks (such as dehydration or stress), these are not the cause.”

What makes migraines distinctive from headaches?

“Migraine attacks often involve moderate to severe head pain,” says Debbie. “The headache is typically throbbing and is made worse by movement or light. It is usually on one side of the head, especially at the start of an attack.”