Chronic migraine

Chronic Migraine is a neurological condition characterized by headaches that occur 15 or more days per month for a period of three months, and which, on at least 8 days per month, have the features of a migraine headache. Chronic migraine affects approximately 1-2% of the population, and can significantly impair quality of life.

Definition and Diagnosis

The International Headache Society defines chronic migraine as a headache occurring on 15 or more days per month for more than three months, which, on at least 8 days per month, has the features of a migraine headache. Diagnosis of chronic migraine is challenging, as it requires a careful clinical history to distinguish it from other types of chronic daily headache.

Symptoms

Chronic migraine symptoms can include moderate to severe headache pain that is throbbing or pulsing, and is often on one side of the head. Other symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Some people may also experience aura symptoms such as visual disturbances or tingling in a limb.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of chronic migraine is unknown, but it is thought to involve changes in the brain and genetic factors. Risk factors for developing chronic migraine include overuse of headache medication, depression, anxiety, and other medical conditions such as sleep disorders and obesity.

Treatment

Treatment for chronic migraine is aimed at reducing headache frequency and severity, and improving quality of life. This can involve a combination of medications, lifestyle changes such as stress management and regular exercise, and sometimes interventional procedures like nerve blocks or botox injections.

See Also

• Migraine
• Headache
• Aura (symptom)
• International Headache Society