1.       Migraines are common.

According to the Migraine Research Foundation, more than 12 percent of the population is affected by migraines. This condition is said to affect more people than both diabetes and asthma combined. In fact, one in four homes in America may include someone who gets migraines.

2.       Migraines affect more women than men.

If you’re a woman, you’re more likely to experience migraines. The Migraine Research Foundation says that 18 percent of women in America are affected by migraines. However, only 6 percent of men report this issue. This is most often seen between the ages of 25 and 55, which are said to be the “peak productive years.”

3.       Migraines are hereditary.

Migraines are hereditary. In other words, if you are affected by migraines, your child might be, too. In fact, statistics show that the chances are about 40 percent that a child of a parent who suffers from migraines will develop this health issue. When both parents are affected, this statistic climbs to 90 percent.

4.       Symptoms of migraines can appear before the migraine itself.

If you experience symptoms before a migraine comes on, you’re definitely not alone. According to the Mayo Clinic, migraine symptoms can come one or two days before the migraine itself. These symptoms can include constipation, depression, hyperactivity, food cravings, irritability, a stiff neck, and an urge to yawn. You may also develop auras, which we’ll discuss next.