"Migraine Variant" is spelled as /maɪˈɡreɪn ˈvɛərɪənt/. The first two syllables, "mi-" and "graine", are spelled as pronounced. The word "variant" has the stress on the second syllable and is pronounced with a short "e" sound in the first syllable. The spelling "a" is used instead of "e" due to the etymology of the word, which comes from the Latin "variare". "Migraine Variant" refers to a type of migraine with atypical symptoms.
A migraine variant, also known as a migraine equivalent or an acephalgic migraine, refers to a neurological condition that exhibits symptoms resembling a migraine attack, but without the typical headache. It is a rare form of migraines that primarily affects individuals, often children or adolescents, who have a family history of migraines.
The defining characteristic of a migraine variant is the presence of classic migraine aura symptoms, which can manifest as visual disturbances (such as flickering lights or zigzag lines), sensory abnormalities (such as tingling or numbness), speech difficulties, or motor disturbances. These aura symptoms generally develop gradually and typically last for about 20 minutes to an hour.
Unlike typical migraines, however, a migraine variant does not involve the throbbing or pulsating headache often associated with migraines. Individuals experiencing a migraine variant may instead experience mild head discomfort or feel completely pain-free during the episode. Nonetheless, the aura symptoms can be distressing and lead to significant impairment in daily activities.
Since the symptoms of a migraine variant can resemble those of other potentially serious conditions, it is crucial for individuals experiencing these symptoms to seek medical evaluation to rule out other underlying causes. Treatment for a migraine variant may involve lifestyle modifications, identification and avoidance of triggers, and in some cases, medication to manage or prevent aura symptoms.
The term "migraine variant" consists of two words: "migraine" and "variant".
1. Migraine:
The word "migraine" has its origins in the Greek word "hemikrania", which means "pain on one side of the head". From Greek, it entered Latin as "hemicrania" and then evolved into the Old French word "migraine". The word "migraine" has been in use since the 15th century to describe a severe headache characterized by throbbing pain on one side of the head, often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, light sensitivity, and visual disturbances.
2. Variant:
The word "variant" comes from the Latin word "varians", which means "changing" or "differing". "Variant" is derived from the Latin verb "varius", which means "to vary" or "to change".