A transformed migraine is a migraine condition characterized by daily, chronic tension-type headaches that occur along with sporadic migraine headaches. This combination also is known as coexisting migraine and tension-type headaches, chronic migraine and chronic daily headache.

Symptoms

In transformed migraines, the more severe headache might be one-sided and patients might experience nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound. The daily tension-type headaches are usually bilateral, or occur on both sides of the head. They also might include a throbbing sensation and be more moderate in severity.

Groups at Risk

People affected by transformed migraines often experienced migraines in their early teens or 20s. Women are at greater risk, and 90 percent of women with transformed migraines also have a history of migraine without aura, or visual disturbances.

Associated Conditions

Many people who experience transformed migraines have coexisting medical conditions such as hypertension or a psychiatric disease such as depression.

Other Risk Factors

Risk factors that might lead from episodic or occasional migraines to transformed migraines include the daily or overuse of prescription or over-the-counter analgesics, head injuries, obesity, snoring and stress.

Treatment

Transformed migraines can be treated with a combination of prescription medications and non-pharmacologic treatments such as physical therapy, biofeedback and counseling.

Source:

National Headache Foundation