**Description:** Migraine is a type of headache characterized by severe pain, often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light. This neurological disorder typically presents in recurrent episodes and can last from several hours to several days. Migraine is classified into different types, with migraine with aura and migraine without aura being the most common. Migraine with aura is characterized by visual or sensory symptoms that precede the headache, while migraine without aura does not present these symptoms. In addition to intense pain, individuals suffering from migraine may experience symptoms such as vomiting, dizziness, and a notable inability to perform daily activities. The prevalence of migraine is high, affecting a significant percentage of the global population, and it is more common in women than in men. Identifying triggers, which may include stress, certain foods, hormonal changes, and lack of sleep, is crucial for managing this condition. Migraine not only affects the quality of life of those who suffer from it but also has a significant impact on work productivity and daily activities, making it a topic of both medical and social interest.
**History:** Migraine has been recognized since ancient times, with references in texts from civilizations such as the Egyptian and Greek. Hippocrates, in the 5th century BC, described symptoms resembling those of migraine. Over the centuries, various theories about its origin have been proposed, ranging from humoral imbalances to neurological causes. In the 19th century, more systematic studies on migraine began, and in the 20th century, specific treatments were developed, including medications like ergotamine. Today, research continues to better understand the underlying mechanisms and improve treatment options.
**Uses:** Migraine is used as a medical term to describe a specific type of headache, and its study is fundamental in neurology. It is employed in clinical practice to diagnose and treat patients suffering from recurrent headache episodes. Additionally, identifying migraine triggers allows doctors to provide personalized recommendations for prevention and management of the condition.
**Examples:** A practical example of migraine is a person experiencing episodes of intense pain on one side of the head, accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light, preventing them from carrying out their daily activities. Another case could be a woman who notices that her migraines worsen during her menstrual cycle, suggesting a hormonal trigger.
