What Do You Know About Migraine Headaches?

The reason isn't known, but researchers suspect that hormones may be involved.

This age group appears to be the peak ages for migraines.

Scientists believe hereditary factors predispose people to migraines.

Researchers are still looking at exactly what these genes do to cause migraine pain. Current research points to inherited genetic abnormalities in specific cells in the brain as the cause of migraine headaches.

This large nerve is responsible for sensation on one side of the face or behind the eyes.

Some people experience pain that involves the entire head, but most complain of pain on one side or another. Not all people experience nausea or auras (a visual change or physical response that warns of an impending headache), although these are both common symptoms.

An aura sometimes occurs before pain begins. If medication is taken quickly, the migraine may be prevented.

Studies have shown that 8 to 23 percent of children between 11 and 15 years old have experienced a migraine headache. Children as young as 3 have been reported with headaches that meet the migraine criteria. The percentage rises with age, with boys having more headaches pre-puberty, and girls having the higher incidence after puberty.