How is migraine pain typically described?

Migraine pain is most commonly described as throbbing or pulsating. This distinctive characteristic of migraine pain often arises from the vascular changes associated with the condition, particularly the dilation and constriction of blood vessels in the brain. Patients frequently report that the pain can be moderate to severe and may be aggravated by physical activity or exposure to light and sound.

The throbbing quality differs from other types of headaches; for instance, tension-type headaches may feel more like a band of pressure around the head, while cluster headaches are often intensely painful but can have different pain descriptions. In the case of migraines, the pulsating nature often correlates with the onset of other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, or aura, which further defines the migraine experience and distinguishes it from other headache types. Understanding this aspect is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment of migraines.