What Causes Migraine and How to Manage the Pain

What Causes Migraine and How to Manage the Pain

13 June, 2025

Understanding “Migraine and Pain Management" - Sunrise Hospital for Advanced Treatments and Compassionate Care. Migraine is much more than a basic headache. It is an intricate neurological condition that can alter day-to-day life in detrimental ways with severe headache, visual disturbance, nausea, and sensitivity to light and noise. At Sunrise Hospital, Kerala’s fastest-growing healthcare network, we understand the trials of migraines and provide advanced treatment with an informed and compassionate approach. We employ some of the Best Neurologists in Kochi to provide patients with better and lasting relief.

What is the root cause behind migraine pain?

Migraines are thought to be influenced by a mix of genetic dispositions and environmental factors. The primary cause is nerve inflammation affecting the dura (the membrane encasing the brain), which leads to pain and associated changes in brain blood flow. In addition, a variety of neurotransmitters, especially serotonin, are thought to play a prominent role in some types of migraines.

What are the common triggers of migraine attacks?

Each individual experiences migraines differently, and triggers can vary widely. Common triggers include:

• Stress and emotional upheaval

• Hormonal changes, particularly in women

• Bright lights, loud noises, or strong odours

• Certain foods and drinks, such as aged cheese, caffeine, and alcohol

• Sleep disturbances or irregular sleep patterns

• Sudden weather changes and barometric pressure shifts

Understanding your personal triggers is the first step towards managing migraine effectively.

What are the stages and symptoms of a migraine?

Migraine attacks can occur in four stages:

1. Prodrome: A day or two before the migraine, individuals may notice mood changes, food cravings, frequent yawning, and neck stiffness.

2. Aura: Some people experience visual or sensory disturbances such as flashes of light, vision loss, or tingling.

3. Attack: The pain phase, which can last from 4 to 72 hours, is typically characterised by throbbing pain on one side of the head, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound.

4. Post-drome: After the attack, individuals often feel drained, confused, or even mildly euphoric.

How can migraine pain be managed effectively?

Although there isn't a one-size-fits-all solution for migraines, there are several more options for controlling and decreasing attack frequency and severity:

• Medications: OTC analgesics (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) could help for mild cases of migraine. For severe migraine attacks, prescription medications like triptan medications or CGRP inhibitors may help alleviate symptoms.

• Lifestyle changes: Some lifestyle changes can also play an important role in controlling migraine. Identifying your specific triggers (and avoiding them), maintaining a routine sleep/wake and sleeping well, drinking plenty of fluids, and eating healthy foods all play a role in controlling overall health, which can help manage migraine.

• Complementary therapies: Some techniques such as yoga, meditation, acupuncture, and stress management therapies may help some people in controlling their responses and controlling their migraine episode.

• Options available: For patients who suffer from migraines, Sunrise Hospital provides various follow-up treatment options, such as nerve blocks and customized plans from our clinical team - which include specialists with expertise in treating migraine headaches.

What is comprehensive neurology care?

The full scope of neurology care involves the assessment, treatment, and overall management of diseases of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nervous system. At Sunrise Hospital, our Department of Neurology and Behavioural Sciences has a wealth of diagnostic and treatment modalities to deliver the best individualized care for each patient.

Why is neurology important in migraine treatment?

Migraines are neurological in nature. Neurologists possess the expertise to differentiate between various types of headaches, understand the root neurological causes, and devise an effective treatment plan. Their role is critical in ensuring accurate diagnosis and preventing complications through early intervention.

When headaches are frequent, intense, or come with additional symptoms such as vision changes, numbness, or seizures, consulting a neurologist is essential. A trained neurologist can detect underlying neurological conditions that may be contributing to the migraine and recommend advanced treatment options.

What makes Sunrise Hospital the best hospital in Kochi for neurology care?

Sunrise Hospital is proud to be Kerala’s fastest-growing healthcare network, with a dedicated team of some of the Best Neurologists in Kochi. Our state-of-the-art Neurology Department focuses on patient-centred care, blending experience, innovation, and empathy.

Who are the neurologists leading migraine care at Sunrise Hospital?

• Dr. Shyma M M (MBBS, DCH, MD, DM - Neurology) is a Senior Consultant Neurologist with over 8.5 years of clinical experience in both Adult and Paediatric Neurology. She is known for her expertise in managing a broad range of neurological conditions, including Stroke, Neuromuscular Disorders, Headaches, Migraine, Epilepsy, Parkinson’s Disease, Back and Neck Pain, Alzheimer’s Disease, and other memory disorders. Her special interests also include Paediatric Neurology and Neuro Critical Care.

Dr. Shyma is particularly skilled in administering Botulinum Toxin injections for various movement disorders and has contributed several research papers to respected international academic journals. Her prior appointments include Consultant Neurologist at PVS Memorial Hospital, Kochi (2015–2018), Senior Resident in Neurology at TD Medical College, Alappuzha (2012–2015), and Senior Resident in Paediatrics at Government Medical College, Calicut (2007–2010), reflecting a strong academic and professional foundation in her field.

Dr. Zia Mydin is a Consultant Neurosurgeon with over 15 years of experience. Educated at Calicut and Kottayam Medical Colleges, he is a pioneer in managing complex neurological conditions with surgical precision and compassion.

• Dr. Anoob Mohammed, with over 4 years of experience, specialises in trauma surgeries and complex spine conditions. His advanced skill set ensures optimal outcomes for patients with acute neurological issues.

We provide a full range of services, including:

• Headache and Migraine Clinics: Specialised consultations to evaluate and treat chronic headaches.

• Advanced Imaging and Diagnostic Tools: MRI, CT scans, and neurological evaluations.

• Medical and Surgical Interventions: Where necessary, we offer both pharmacological and surgical solutions.

• The department features cutting-edge equipment such as the Karl Zeiss 8000 series microscope, enabling precise surgical interventions for complex conditions like brain tumours, aneurysms, and severe neurological trauma. It also houses the CUSA (Cavitron Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator) – Tutor Excision equipment, which enhances the safety and accuracy of tumour removal procedures. Additionally, the state-of-the-art neuro navigation system ensures pinpoint precision during delicate brain and spine surgeries, significantly.

• Rehabilitation and Follow-Up Care: To ensure long-term recovery and improved quality of life.

How does Sunrise Hospital care for your overall neurological health?

Our care doesn't end with diagnosis. We believe in lifelong partnerships with our patients. With multidisciplinary teams, regular follow-up schedules, and personalised treatment plans, we ensure that every patient receives holistic care for their neurological well-being.

What do our patients say about us?

Patient Testimonial 1 - Aneesh Chandran

Doctors were good and they treated my mother well..

Patient Testimonial 2 - Alan Brooks

I've just had a most enjoyable experience at Sunrise Hospital.

Sunrise Hospital combines clinical excellence with compassionate care. With our highly qualified neurologists, cutting-edge infrastructure, and patient-first approach, we continue to set benchmarks in neurological healthcare. When you're searching for the Best Neurologist in Kochi, Sunrise Hospital should be your first choice.

We encourage all individuals suffering from migraine or any neurological condition to consult with our expert team for a tailored treatment plan. At Sunrise Hospital, you are not just a patient—you are family.

To book a consultation or know more about our services: Call us at: +91 484 2660000.

Email us at: enquiry@sunrisehospital.in