Migraine headaches are characterised by a variety of symptoms, which often include:

• Severe throbbing pain located in the forehead or on one side
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Blurred vision
• Tingling and numbness of the limbs
• Loss of appetite
• Preference for a darkened place
• Attacks last several hours or up to a day or more
• In some cases, visual disturbances may be present or may precede the headache itself- these are referred to as an "aura".

Migraines involve excessive constriction and dilation of blood vessels in the brain.

They can be triggered by any number of things including:

• Food allergy and chemicals in food and alcohol
• Stress and tiredness
• Hormonal changes such as those that occur at the time of ovulation and menstruation
• The oral contraceptive pill
• Flashing lights or bright glare
• Too little or too much exercise or sleep
• Changes in barometric pressure (humidity)
• Poor posture and muscle tension
• Emotional changes.

• Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) has been clinically proven to decrease the frequency of migraine attacks and reduce the duration of each migraine episode by about 50% when taken in doses of 400 mg daily over periods of longer than three months
• The mineral magnesium may be of benefit. Magnesium taken on an empty stomach can help prevent constriction of the blood vessels.
• Cold compresses applied to the forehead can also help.