A migraine is a severe headache in which the sufferer just wants to lie down in a dark and quiet space. A migraine can be disabling to the sufferer because the symptoms are so severe and last anywhere from four to 72 hours if left untreated.
Symptoms
Most people who suffer from migraines have had some or all of these symptoms as documented by the Mayo Clinic.
- Moderate to severe pain which may be on one or both sides of the head
- Pulsating or throbbing head pain
- Pain that worsens with physical activity
- Pain that interferes with daily activities
- Nausea with or without vomiting
- Sensitivity to light and sound
Before the migraine strikes, a person may have one or more of these sensations of premonition: feelings of elation or intense energy, cravings for sweets, thirst, drowsiness and irritability or depression.
Types
There are two types of migraines: common and classic. The common migraine does not have an aura. Classic migraine sufferers do experience auras about 15 to 30 minutes before the migraine attacks and may continue. When experiencing an aura, a person may:
- See sparkling flashes of light
- Perceive dazzling zigzag lines
- Experience slowly spreading blind spots
- Feel tingling, pins and needles sensations in arms and legs
- Experience weakness of language and speech problems (rarely)
Triggers
There are many things that can trigger a migraine. Once a person suffers a few migraines, s/he may be able to identify the trigger and avoid it. Common triggers include hormonal changes, food, stress, sensory stimuli, wake/sleep pattern changes, physical factors, environment changes and medications.
Treatment
There are two types of medications used to treat migraines: pain relieving and preventive.
There is a whole host of pain relieving medication. They include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – such as Ibuprofen, Advil and Excedrin Migraine. If taken too often or too long, these can lead to gastrointestinal bleeding and rebound headaches.
- Triptans – such as Imitrex, Maxalt and Frova.
- Ergots – This has been used for many years but is less effective than triptans.
- Anti-nausea medication – such as the prescribed medications metoclopramide and prochlorperazine .
- Butalbital combinations – These should be used rarely as they often cause rebound headaches and withdrawal symptoms.
- Opiates – Used as a last resort due to the habit-forming nature.
Preventive medication include cardiovascular drugs, antidepressants, anti-seizure drugs, cyproheptadine, botulinum toxin type A (botox).
Ways to Avoid Migraines
There are a few ways to avoid having a migraine. The most preventive thing a person can do is to avoid a trigger if possible. Other ways are to exercise regularly and reduce the effects of estrogen.
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