Migraines

Overview

Migraine Headaches

Migraine is a chronic neurological disease that manifests in long lasting, moderate to severe headaches that occur weeks or months apart. Migraine causes are not known, although they are associated with telltale symptoms affecting the autonomic nervous system. 

According to the Migraine Research Foundation, migraines affect about 10% of the population – and nearly 1 in 4 North American households include someone who suffers from migraine headaches. Roughly 1 in 5 women and 1 in 15 men are affected.

Most common causes of a migraine include:

• Stress, hunger, and fatigue – the most reported migraine triggers.
• Extreme physical exertion can cause migraine in some people.
• Sleep disturbances caused by insomnia, shift work and jet lag can trigger a migraine and increase the frequency and severity of the condition.
• Psychological stress (reported by 50 – 80% of people).
• Post-traumatic stress disorder and past abuse are associated with migraine.
• Hormonal influences, such as menstruation, oral contraceptives, and perimenopause, are associated in migraine without aura, and migraines usually diminish during pregnancy.
• 12 – 60 % of people report foods as migraine triggers.
• Air quality and lighting may be a factor.

WHAT CAN BE DONE?

How to Get Rid of a Migraine?

Treatment for migraines usually starts with pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, anti-nausea medications, and the avoidance of triggers. Stronger painkillers such as triptans (e.g. Imitrex, Maxalt, Zomig) or ergots (usually a combination of Ergotamine and caffeine), may be used if needed.

Other medications used to prevent migraine attacks include: anti-seizure medications (e.g. Topamax and Depacon), antidepressants and beta blockers. A relative newcomer to the list of medications used to treat migraines is Botox.

Neuromodulators have also been shown to be helpful in treating and preventing chronic migraine headaches in adults. Anti-Aging Medical & Laser Clinic administers neuromodulator treatments for migraines. This treatment for migraines was first approved in July 2010 by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). It’s been shown to be effective for both migraine and cluster headaches (an equally severe headache pattern with slightly different symptoms).