Diagnosis of Migraine

Migraine headache is a common and increasing problem in the United States; it is under-recognized and under-reported. The clarification of headaches by the International Headache Society (IHS) has become the standard for the diagnosis of migraine and other headache disorders. It categorizes most migraine headaches under the following diagnosis: migraine without aura, migraine with aura, ophthalmoplegic migraine, and retinal migraine. Diagnostic criteria used to make the diagnosis of migraine include such factors as the location and character of headache pain; the extent to which pain inhibits function; the effect of physical activity on the pain; and the presence of nausea, vomiting, photophobia, or phonophobia. Proper use of the IHS classification and diagnostic criteria is important for accurate diagnosis and treatment of migraine, as well as for standardization of patients for research protocols.