Atypical migraine is a complex migraine headache and is commonly known as sick headache, common headache or migraine without aura. The diagnosis of this type is a little tricky. The main difference between normal and atypical migraine is that the symptoms of atypical do not fit in the normal symptoms.
However it is quite difficult to classify and categorize it from the normal ones but efforts are still being made to come up with an acceptable classification to make it easier to recognize the symptoms of atypical migraines. While diagnosing it, your doctor must be pretty sure that the symptoms do not look like migraines.
About 23 million people are affected by this problem in the US, out of which 18% of them are females and 6% of them are males. Also, the white people are found to be most commonly affected by the condition. Migraines as such are often accompanied by headaches and if there is no headache then it is referred to as atypical migraine. It may involve stomachache, abdominal pain or even face ache. Another characteristic that differentiates atypical migraine from migraine is that it involves the whole head rather than only one side of the head. This condition tends to have neurological effects though it might last for only a couple of hours.
So far, researches have not been able to point out the exact causes of migraines. Though, doctors are indicating that it could be due to the constrictions of the blood vessels in the brain. But no one has been able to point out as to what makes the blood vessel constrict. Some of the causes of atypical migraines apart from the stated above are:
1) Genetic disorder
2) Insufficient sleep
3) Weather changes
4) Motion sickness
5) Exposure to fluorescent light or bright light.
6) Certain foods with additives
7) Smoking, drinking, stress and being overweight can also trigger migraines.
If you are aware of the things that triggers migraine then it is best to eliminate those things from your daily routine. As far as the treatment is concerned, there are a number of medications available which can be relied on. Also regular exercise, proper diet and a healthy lifestyle will also be helpful. An important point to keep in mind is that the attack of atypical migraines is similar to that of the strokes, so it is best to consult a doctor immediately.
Also read on to know more about symptoms of atypical migraines to help you recognize when it sets in. We value your comments and views so feel free to write in and share your opinions with us.
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