A migraine headache is a special type of headache. Classically, the single most characteristic feature of migraine is episodic headache associated with accompanying symptoms like vomiting, blurring of vision etc. Episodic headaches means that they can occur anywhere from once or twice a year to 1-4 times a month but in between, there are prolonged pain free intervals. However, occasionally some patients may get headaches more frequently, almost daily. The headache is usually felt on the one part of the head

Common symptoms of migraine are associated with:

• Intense head pain. The pain begins on one side of the head and it spreads downward to the eye, face and even neck. The pain can switch sides and less commonly can affect both sides at once.
• Feeling a relentless throbbing or pounding deep in the head.
• Having nausea
• Vomiting
• Strong and painful reactions to light and loud noises. As a result patients try to avoid them.
• The simple act of moving may be difficult during the migraine attack. Pain may worsen from activity.
• Not being able to carry out day to day activities.
• Need to lie down during the attacks.
• Aura - also called "prodrome"; a set of specific symptoms affecting the brain and vision that will precede the onset of certain types of migraines