Migranes

I've had a few migraines in my life, so I can offer you suggestions based on my experience; maybe we will hear from others, too, since migraines are a common occurrence.

It's scary to hear that even the doctors do not know what is going on! He may want to do some of his own research; here are some places to get started:

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke seems to have the most updated information and current research about migraines.

Migraine Research Foundation

American Headache Society

MedlinePlus includes a section (scroll to bottom) of "Latest News" on treatments and clinical trials

Mayo Foundation includes additional triggers

Does your friend have any of these triggers immediately before, or since July 4th? (and, it may not be important information that he has not had migraines previously, unless an event or trauma "triggered" them on July 4th...some adults "develop" migraines at different times in their life who did not have them before)
- lack of food or sleep
- exposure to light
- anxiety, stress, or relaxation after stress
- certain foods may be a trigger

According to the NINDS, "Investigators now believe that migraine is caused by inherited abnormalities in genes that control the activities of certain cell populations in the brain."

I have a family history of migraines, and never experienced one until just a few years ago. I had two migraines where I felt nauseous, saw spots then had difficulty seeing, was extremely sensitive to any light, and had a severe headache. I was working on the computer both times, with glaring florescent lights overhead. I have not had one since those two times, and am still working on the computer a significant amount of time, so I think mine was also stress/anxiety related.