What is a common characteristic of a migraine headache?

A common characteristic of a migraine headache is that the pain is often localized to one side of the head. This unilateral pain is accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound. Migraines can vary in intensity and duration, and while some individuals experience headaches on both sides, the hallmark of a migraine is the tendency for pain to be predominantly on one side.

The other options do not accurately represent typical characteristics of migraines. For example, pain on both sides of the head is more indicative of tension-type headaches, and migraines often last longer than an hour. Additionally, many patients do experience an aura, which can include visual disturbances, sensations, or other neurological symptoms preceding the headache. Thus, recognizing the unilateral nature of migraine headaches is crucial for proper identification and management of this condition.