The most common of the three is the migraine, which is categorised as a vascular headache. They occur when blood vessels in the head expand and contract. This is turn causes pain, usually a consistent, throbbing pain centred around the right or left eye, ear, or side of the head. Migraines can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Millions of North Americans suffer from migraine headaches and just as many dollars are lost each year to sick days.
Doctors believe that fluctuating hormone levels trigger migraines.
Migraines can strike people at any time in their lives and cause severe, recurring pain. Often the sufferer feels nauseous or vomits. Normal daily routines are impossible and those stricken must find a quiet, dark room and stay there until the attack is over. Most sufferers are afflicted about once a month, although some are stricken numerous times per week. Others suffer only minimal attacks in their lifetime.