Understanding Migraine (With or Without Aura): More Than Just a Bad Headache
By Canberra Headache Centre
Migraine is often dismissed as “just a headache,” but anyone who lives with it knows it is much more. It’s a neurological condition that affects how the brain processes pain and sensory information.
At Canberra Headache Centre, we work with people experiencing all forms of migraine — with and without aura — using tailored strategies to reduce attacks and improve quality of life.
What Is a Migraine?
Migraine is a recurrent headache disorder, usually presenting with moderate to severe throbbing pain, often on one side of the head. It may last anywhere from a few hours to several days.
There are two main subtypes:
– Migraine without aura (common migraine): The most frequent form. Headache develops without preceding sensory disturbances.
– Migraine with aura (classic migraine): Headache is preceded or accompanied by temporary neurological symptoms, such as:
– Visual changes (flashing lights, zig-zag lines, blind spots)
– Numbness or tingling
– Speech or language difficulties
– Less commonly, weakness or dizziness
Common Symptoms
– Throbbing or pulsating head pain, often one-sided
– Nausea and/or vomiting
– Sensitivity to light, sound, or smell
– Fatigue and difficulty concentrating
– Aura (in some cases, lasting 5–60 minutes before headache onset)
What Causes Migraine?
Migraine is now understood as a brain sensitivity disorder. It involves abnormal activation of the trigeminal nerve and brainstem, leading to altered processing of pain and sensory input.
Triggers vary, but common ones include:
– Stress or emotional changes
– Hormonal shifts (e.g., menstruation, menopause)
– Poor sleep or fatigue
– Skipped meals or dehydration
– Certain foods (alcohol, cheese, chocolate, processed foods)
– Bright lights, loud sounds, or strong smells
Over time, repeated attacks can sensitise the nervous system, making the brain more reactive to otherwise normal stimuli.
Diagnosis
There is no definitive test for migraine. Diagnosis is based on:
– Symptom patterns and history
– Frequency, duration, and nature of attacks
– Presence or absence of aura
– Ruling out other causes of headache
At Canberra Headache Centre, we conduct a thorough assessment, focusing on both neurological and musculoskeletal contributors.
How Canberra Headache Centre Can Help
- Watson Headache® Approach
– Targets dysfunction in the upper cervical spine
– Helps reduce brainstem sensitivity
– Proven effective in migraine management - Manual Therapy and Postural Correction
– Restores neck and shoulder function
– Reduces strain on headache-generating areas - Education and Trigger Management
– Identifying personal triggers
– Improving sleep, hydration, and routine
– Stress management strategies - Vestibular and Visual Support
Some migraine sufferers experience dizziness, visual sensitivity, or imbalance. We provide vestibular rehabilitation and visual-motor training where needed. - Collaborative Care
We work closely with GPs and neurologists when medication, imaging, or further specialist input is required.
Outlook
With the right management, many people achieve:
– Reduced frequency and intensity of migraine attacks
– Shorter recovery times
– Less reliance on medication
– Improved daily function and quality of life
Migraine may be complex, but you don’t have to face it alone. Effective treatment and support are available.