What characterizes a migraine headache?

A migraine headache is characterized by severe, unilateral, throbbing pain that often presents with associated neurological symptoms, which can include visual disturbances, sensory changes, or aura. This type of headache is usually moderate to debilitating in intensity and can last from hours to several days. The throbbing quality of the pain distinguishes it from other headache types, such as tension headaches, which are typically described as a dull, pressing sensation.

Additionally, migraines can be accompanied by other systemic symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound, further underlining the severity and specificity of the condition. The presence of neurological deficits (although not always present) can sometimes be associated with the aura phase.

The other options do not encompass the full scope of migraine characteristics; generalized pain without neurological symptoms does not apply to migraines specifically, as they typically involve localized and often accompanied by those neurological changes. Unilateral and dull pain may describe some other headache types but misses the key throbbing quality and severity. Finally, while frequency can vary, it is not a defining characteristic of migraines.