We often use the term "migraine" to describe particularly strong headaches. Officially, however, the term actually refers to a certain neurological disorder that has incredibly powerful headaches as a primary symptom. The term "migraine" is frequently treated as being interchangeable with the disorder's best known symptom, the migraine headache.

The word "migraine" is of French origin and has it roots in the Greek term "hemicrania." The expression literally translates to "only half the head." That curious origin must certainly seem like a less-than-accurate description of a migraine headache! Migraine headaches can actually be quite debilitating and certainly feel as though they stretch far beyond any "halfway point." In fact, migraine headaches can render their victims almost helpless. When in the throes of a migraine headache, communication can be difficult and clarity can be lost as intense pain takes over.

Although we can pinpoint the origin of the term "migraine," we are not yet able to exactly determine its root cause. Scientists and medical professionals have not conclusively determined the why some people suffer from migraine headaches while the bulk of the population does not. Treatment methods have been devised, and have shown some level of effectiveness, but the root cause of migraine headaches remains uncertain.

There are theories about the source of the migraine disorder. One explanation maintains that changes in blood flow can, in combination with biochemical changes, create painful headaches in some people with sensitive blood vessels. The body reacts to the pressure on the vessels by triggering a spasm. This, some argue, creates the migraine headaches while slowing blood on its way to the brain. This theory is widely held, but certainly is not held up as a definitive explanation of why migraine headaches happen.

Other researchers offer other potential explanations. Some hope that by isolating the specific cause of migraine disorders they will be able to unearth techniques with which to fight the problem. As of today, however, certainty regarding the cause still evades the scientific community and research continues.

Regardless of the cause, the symptoms are all too well known. Painful headaches are only part of the migraine syndrome. Sensitivity to light and sound are also common and serve to make the problem even more frustrating. Those who have never experienced a migraine headache may find it difficult to understand the agony created by the intense episodes.

Migraine headaches can be a horrible thing with which to live. Sufferers can find themselves completely unable to function in any meaningful way during a migraine attack. Although the term "migraine" may stem from "only half the head," the pain and limitation created by migraine syndrome can completely debilitate a victim. Those suffering from migraine headaches may describe their suffering in many different ways, but few would ever think of saying their pain was limited to "only half the head!"