Migraines are a neurological condition marked by pounding headaches, often accompanied by sensitivity to light, noise, smell, or touch. In some cases, migraines may ease with proper rest and relaxation.

However, there are times when migraines become intense and are accompanied by concerning symptoms such as dizziness, loss of coordination, or vision problems. This article explains when you should seek medical help for migraines that go beyond the usual discomfort.

What is Migraine?

A migraine is a type of headache that usually affects one side of the head and is often described as throbbing or pulsing pain. Physical activity or exposure to lights, sounds, and strong smells can make it worse.

Migraines may last between 8 and 72 hours and generally progress through four phases:

1. Prodrome Phase
   Begins 1–2 days before the headache. You may feel mood swings, trouble sleeping, or difficulty focusing.

2. Aura Phase
   These are warning signals such as blurry vision, numbness, muscle weakness, or ringing in the ears. This stage can last from 5 to 60 minutes.

3. Headache Phase
   This is when the actual migraine occurs, lasting anywhere from 4 to 72 hours. Nausea, vomiting, and light or sound sensitivity are common.

4. Postdrome Phase
   After the headache eases, you may still feel tired, mentally foggy, or have a stiff neck for several hours or up to two days.

Although the exact cause of migraines is not fully understood, triggers like stress, hormonal changes, weather shifts, and poor sleep patterns are known to play a role.

When Should You See a Doctor?

While many migraines improve with rest or over-the-counter medication, there are certain situations where medical care is needed.

You should seek medical help if your migraine becomes unusually severe, lasts longer than usual, or doesn't respond to standard treatments. A proper medical evaluation can help rule out serious conditions and guide effective treatment.

Contact a doctor right away if you experience migraines with the following symptoms:

• Sudden weakness, dizziness, or balance issues

• Collapsing unexpectedly due to headache

• Tingling or numbness in your face, arms, or legs

• Trouble moving one side of the body

• Difficulty speaking clearly or slurred speech

• Confusion, personality changes, or odd behavior

• Seizures

• Changes in vision such as blurriness or double vision

• High fever, stiff neck, shortness of breath, or skin rash

• Headaches that wake you up from sleep

• Intense nausea and vomiting

• Headaches after a fall or head trauma

• Pain triggered by coughing, bending, sexual activity, or physical strain

• Notable changes in your usual migraine patterns

Apart from these warning signs, it's also recommended to visit a doctor if your headaches are getting more frequent, happening more than three times a week, or if you rely on pain medication daily. Migraines that affect your ability to work, socialize, or perform daily tasks should not be ignored.

A doctor will perform a full evaluation, provide the right treatment, and help identify triggers so you can better manage the condition.

In addition to prescription medication, some people find relief through supplements like vitamin B2, stress management techniques, or alternative therapies such as acupuncture. However, it’s important to consult a medical professional before starting any treatment. You can also connect with a doctor through the Ai Care app, available on the App Store and Play Store.

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