A migraine is a severe headache that often has a number of associated symptoms, such as nausea, increased sensitivity, and visual problems.

Who is affected by migraines?

Migraines are common; affecting about 1 in 4 females and 1 in 12 men. It is thought that hormonal influences may be the reason why migraines affect more women than men. For example, some women find that migraine attacks are more frequent around the time of their period. However, this association has not been fully proven.

It is possible for migraines to begin later in life. However, it is more common for the condition to begin in childhood or as a young adult. About 90 per cent of people who experience migraines have their first one before they are 40 years old.

Types of migraine

There are two types of migraine - classical and common:

• Classical migraine is when the headache follows a series of symptoms, known as aura (see the 'symptoms' section).
• Common migraine is when a person does not experience aura symptoms.

Some people experience migraine attacks frequently, such as several times a week. Other people only experience a migraine occasionally. For example, it is possible for years to pass between migraine attacks.