Migraines are far more than just ‘bad headaches.’ For millions, they are debilitating neurological events that interrupt daily life, sap mental energy, and linger long after the pain subsides. Despite
affecting over a billion people worldwide, migraines remain widely misunderstood – often dismissed, misdiagnosed, or treated with generic advice that misses the mark.
“Migraine is a complex neurological condition that unfolds in phases and affects far more than just the head,” says Dr. Sheela Nagusah, General Physician and Internal Medicine Specialist at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai. To manage it well, the expert helps us understand what’s happening in the body and brain – beyond the visible symptoms.
What Migraine Really Looks Like
Migraine episodes usually build gradually, beginning with subtle warning signs like fatigue, irritability, cravings, or visual disturbances. “It’s not just the headache that defines a migraine,” explains Dr. Nagusah. “Many patients experience sensory symptoms, nausea, and extreme light or sound sensitivity.”
Even after the pain fades, recovery can take days, leaving people mentally foggy or physically drained. Recognising these phases can help individuals respond early and reduce the impact.
Why Migraine Triggers Are So Personal
No two migraine sufferers are alike. Triggers can include hormonal shifts, disrupted sleep, weather changes, certain foods, or emotional stress. “What helps one person may worsen symptoms for another,” says Dr. Nagusah. That’s why she encourages patients to maintain a symptom journal – tracking sleep, diet, stress, and weather to uncover personal patterns.
Migraine Treatment: More Than Just Medication
Acute episodes can often be managed with medications like triptans or NSAIDs, but long-term treatment includes preventive care. “We use medicines originally meant for other conditions – like beta-blockers or anticonvulsants – that help stabilise brain activity,” explains Dr. Nagusah.
Lifestyle also plays a critical role. Regular meals, adequate sleep, hydration, and stress management are not just wellness trends – they’re proven methods for reducing frequency and severity.
Food, Routine, and the Body’s Signals
A balanced diet can make a significant difference. “Skipping meals or eating processed foods can trigger attacks,” says Dr. Nagusah. Nutrients like magnesium and omega-3s may offer added protection, while a steady daily routine builds neurological resilience.
The Hidden Emotional Toll
The unpredictability of migraines can take a major toll on mental health. “Many of my patients live in constant fear of the next episode,” she shares. This anxiety can lead to isolation, loss of confidence, and even depression.
“Addressing the emotional side is just as important,” she adds. “Patients respond better when mental health support is included in their treatment plan.”
When to Seek Help for Migraine
“People often delay seeking help because they’ve normalised their symptoms,” warns Dr. Nagusah. “Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes and fewer days lost to pain.” Recurring headaches that are severe, one-sided, or accompanied by nausea or sensory sensitivity should not be ignored.
