Migraines are throbbing headaches that last from 4 to 72 hours, usually on one side of your head. They may be triggered by certain foods or smells.

They may cause nausea and vomiting. And light may make the pain worse. Some people have an aura—like seeing wavy lines or flashing lights—before the headache starts.

Although migraines are painful, they can often be treated with pain medicines and sometimes with medicines to prevent the headaches.