migraine screening test preparation

Overview

A migraine screening test is a set of questions and sometimes a physical exam that helps your doctor find out if your headaches are migraines. Preparing for this test means you may be asked to keep a headache diary and note any triggers, patterns, or symptoms.

Yes, migraine is very common. About 1 in 7 people worldwide experience migraine.

Migraine can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in women and often runs in families.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Throbbing or pulsing headache, usually on one side of the head.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells.
• Visual disturbances called aura – like flashing lights or blind spots.

Symptoms in children

• Headaches that may be less specific, often on both sides of the head.
• Upset stomach or vomiting without a clear reason.
• Needing to rest in a dark, quiet room.

Symptoms in older adults

• Headaches that may be less severe but more frequent.
• Aura symptoms that can mimic a stroke (e.g., weakness or numbness).
• Increased sensitivity to medication side effects.

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause of migraine is not fully known, but it involves changes in brain activity and nerve signals.
• Migraine can be triggered by certain factors like stress, lack of sleep, certain foods, or hormonal changes.

Risk factors

• Family history of migraine.
• Being female (hormonal changes can play a role).
• Age – migraine often starts in adolescence or early adulthood.
• Certain medical conditions like depression, anxiety, or sleep disorders.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have a sudden, very severe headache (the worst you've ever had).
• You have a headache with a rash, stiff neck, or trouble speaking.
• You have a headache after a head injury.

Book a routine appointment if:

• You have frequent or disabling headaches that affect your daily life.
• You need help managing your headaches or understanding what triggers them.
• You want to discuss treatment options to prevent or reduce migraine attacks.

Diagnosis

Migraine is usually diagnosed based on your medical history, a description of your symptoms, and a physical exam. There is no single test for migraine, but your doctor may use a headache diary or questionnaires to confirm the diagnosis.

Tests that may be done

• Headache diary to track frequency, triggers, and symptoms.
• Neurological exam to check your vision, reflexes, and coordination.
• Sometimes imaging tests (like an MRI) are done to rule out other causes of headache.

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will ask about your headaches – when they started, how often they happen, what they feel like, and what seems to trigger them. They may also ask about your family history and any other medical conditions. You may be asked to keep a headache diary for a few weeks before your next visit.

Treatment

Migraine treatment aims to relieve symptoms during an attack and prevent future attacks. It often includes a combination of self-care, lifestyle changes, and medical treatments.

Self-care at home

• Rest in a quiet, dark room during an attack.
• Apply a cold or warm compress to your head or neck.
• Drink water to stay hydrated.
• Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
• Identify and avoid your personal triggers (e.g., certain foods, stress, bright lights).

Medical treatments

Medical treatments include medications taken at the start of a migraine to stop it, and daily preventive medications to reduce how often migraines happen. Other options include nerve blocks or devices that stimulate certain nerves. Always talk to your doctor about what is right for you. Do not take any medication without professional advice.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not a standard treatment for migraine. In very rare cases, procedures like nerve decompression may be considered, but these are not widely recommended.

Living with this condition

Living with migraine means learning to manage your triggers and having a plan for when an attack happens. Keep a headache diary to identify patterns. Let your employer, family, and friends know what you need during an attack.

Lifestyle tips

• Stick to a regular sleep schedule – go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
• Eat regular meals and avoid skipping meals.
• Manage stress with relaxation techniques or gentle exercise.
• Stay hydrated throughout the day.

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet and regular moderate exercise can help reduce the frequency of migraines for some people. Avoid foods that you notice trigger your migraines (like aged cheese, chocolate, or alcohol). Start any new exercise slowly to avoid triggering an attack.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with chronic migraines can cause anxiety, depression, or frustration. It is important to acknowledge these feelings and seek support. Talking to a mental health professional or joining a support group can help.

Prevention

It may not be possible to prevent all migraines, but you can reduce how often they happen by avoiding triggers, maintaining healthy habits, and – if your doctor recommends – taking preventive medications.

Complications

If left untreated

• Frequent migraines can become chronic (15 or more headache days per month).
• Medication overuse headache can occur if you take pain relievers too often.
• Migraine can affect your quality of life, work, and relationships.

Long-term outlook

With the right treatment and lifestyle adjustments, most people with migraine can manage their symptoms and lead a full, active life. Many find that their migraines become less frequent or severe over time.

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