Migraine - Causes, Symptoms & Treament

Overview

A migraine can cause severe throbbing pain or a pulsatile pain, usually on one side of the head. It is a common condition which affects the female more than the males at some point in life. Migraine usually presents before the age of 40 and it has been estimated that 90% of migraine sufferers have their first attack by this time. Migraine attacks can last for hours to days and the pain can be so severe that interferes with your daily activities.

Signs and Symptoms

Aura lasting for 15-30 minutes, Followed by aura: unilateral throbbing headache, Nausea and vomitting, Photophobia/phonophobia, Allodynia: all stimuli produce pain, Prodrome: precedes headache by hours/days-yawning, mood swings, sleep changes

Common Causes

Imbalance in brain chemicals, Hormonal changes in women, Drinks: alcohol, caffeine, Stress, Sensory stimuli: bright lights, loud sound, strong smell, Sleep changes, Physical factors: intense physical exertion, Medications: oral contraceptives, vasodilators, Food: cheese,salty and processed food

Risk Factors

Family history, Sex: common in females, Hormonal changes: before or during menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, improves after menopause.

Investigation Techniques

Treatment and Prevention

Prophylactic treatment: propranolol/topiramate, amitriptyline, valproate, pizotifen, pregabalin, 12 weekly botulinum toxin type A injections(chronic migraines), Treatment during attack: Oral triptan with NSAIDs or Paracetamol, oral triptan/NSAIDs/paracetamol, lithium, ergot, SSRIs use (recent), Warm or cold pack over the head, Rebreathing into a paper bag, Vitamin B2 supplement, Acupuncture, Transcutaneous nerve stimulation, Lifestyle and home remedies, Relaxation therapy, Develop sleeping and eating routine, Drink plenty of water, Exercise regularly