American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

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What pain characteristic is typically present in mid to severe migraine cases?

Mild intensity
Throbbing nature
Steady pressure
Intermittent stinging

The correct answer is: Throbbing nature

In mid to severe migraine cases, the pain is typically characterized by its throbbing nature. This throbbing or pulsating sensation is one of the hallmark features of migraine headaches. It is often described as intermittent, coming in waves that can make the pain feel more intense, and it is usually unilateral (affecting one side of the head). The throbbing pain can be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and increased sensitivity to light and sound. This characteristic distinguishes migraines from other types of headaches, which may present with different pain qualities. For example, tension-type headaches usually present with a more consistent, pressing pain rather than the throbbing pattern seen in migraines. Understanding this difference is crucial for diagnosis and effective treatment strategies for migraine sufferers.