Migraine headaches: A brief overview

This article aims to provide a concise, high-level overview of the classification, management and treatment of migraine. Migraine is a common, debilitating neurological disorder that is characterised by the presence of severe headaches, which may last anything from a few hours to a few days (4-72 hours). Thus, the condition is characterised by episodes of severe migraine headache, frequently accompanied by nausea and vomiting. These headaches may be unilateral or bilateral and patients may also experience a range of associated features. Acute attacks require rapid, abortive treatment and the rate of recurrence needs to be reduced and managed through the use of effective prophylactic measures.