What characterizes migraine headaches?

Migraines are characterized primarily by recurring severe headaches, often accompanied by nausea and sometimes sensitivity to light and sound. During a migraine attack, individuals typically experience a considerable level of pain, often described as throbbing or pulsating, which can significantly impair their ability to function. The nausea associated with migraines can vary from mild queasiness to more severe vomiting, making it a hallmark symptom of the condition.

In contrast, intermittent mild headaches do not fit the severity or recurring nature of migraines. Constant pain on one side of the head suggests a different headache type, such as cluster headaches or tension-type headaches, which do not capture the full experience of a migraine. Additionally, while light can indeed trigger migraines for some individuals, saying that headaches are triggered solely by light overlooks the multi-faceted nature of migraine triggers, which can include stress, certain foods, hormonal changes, and environmental factors, besides light sensitivity. Thus, option B accurately encapsulates the essential characteristics of migraine headaches.