Migraine will no longer return: the secrets of sustainable relief

Chapter 1: Understanding Migraine is deeper than just a headache

Migraine is much more than just a severe headache. This is a complex neurological state, characterized by pulsating pain, often on one side of the head, accompanied by various symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, increased sensitivity to light (photophobia), sound (phonophobia) and odors (osmophobia). It is important to understand that migraine is not an ordinary headache, but a condition that can significantly worsen the quality of life.

1.1. Varieties of migraines: from classical to chronic

There are several different types of migraines, each with their own unique characteristics:

Migraine with aura: This type of migraine is accompanied by neurological symptoms called aura, which usually occur before the beginning of a headache. The aura can manifest itself in the form of visual disturbances (for example, flickering lights, zigzag lines, loss of vision fields), sensory disturbances (for example, tingling, numbness) or speech difficulties.
Migraine without aura: This is the most common type of migraine in which headache occurs without any previous neurological symptoms.
Chronic migraine: Chronic migraine is defined as headaches that occur 15 or more days a month, for more than 3 months, and at least 8 of these days correspond to migraine criteria.
Migraine in childhood: Migraine can also occur in children, manifested in various ways, including abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, in addition to headaches.
Hemiplegic migraine: A rare type of migraine, characterized by the weakness of one side of the body (hemiplegia) during an attack.
Vestibular migraine: This type of migraine causes dizziness, equilibrium disturbance and other vestibular symptoms that can occur before, during or after a headache.
Retinal migraine: A rare type of migraine, in which visual disorders occur in only one eye, such as flickering lights, cattle (a dark spot in the field of view) or even temporary blindness.

1.2. Migraine triggers: identification of hidden factors

Migraine is often caused by various triggers that can vary from person to person. The identification and avoidance of these triggers is an important step in preventing migraine attacks. General migraines triggers include:

Food triggers: Certain products and drinks, such as sustained cheeses, treated meat, chocolate, caffeine and alcohol (especially red wine), can cause migraine in some people.
Hormonal changes: In women, migraine is often associated with hormonal changes, such as menstruation, pregnancy and menopause.
Stress: Stress is a common migraine trigger. Stress management using relaxation methods such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing can help reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.
Changes in sleep mode: The lack of sleep, excess sleep or a change in sleep mode can cause migraine. It is important to maintain a regular sleep mode.
Environmental factors: Bright light, loud sounds, strong smells, changes in weather and heights can cause migraine.
Dehydration: Insufficient fluid consumption can provoke migraines. It is important to maintain a sufficient level of hydration by drinking enough water during the day.
Missed meals: Passing meals can lead to a decrease in blood sugar, which can provoke migraines.
Physical activity: Intensive physical activity can cause migraine in some people.
Medicines: Some drugs, such as oral contraceptives and vasodilators, can cause migraine.

1.3. Migraine pathophysiology: What happens in the brain?

The exact pathophysiology of migraines has not been fully studied, but it is believed that it includes complex interactions between genetic factors, environmental factors and various structures and chemicals in the brain. Key factors involved in migraine pathophysiology include:

Trigeminal nervous system: This system plays an important role in the transmission of pain signals from the head and face to the brain. Activation of the trigeminal nervous system leads to the release of neuropeptides, such as CGRP (calcitonin-hen-tied peptide), which cause inflammation and expansion of blood vessels in the brain.
CGRP (Calcitonin-Gen-tied peptide): CGRP is a powerful vasodilating peptide that plays an important role in the pathophysiology of migraine. The increased CGRP level was detected during migraine attacks, and the drugs that block CGRP or its receptor were effective in the prevention and treatment of migraine.
Serotonin: Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in regulating mood, sleep and pain. It is believed that changes in the level of serotonin in the brain are involved in the pathophysiology of migraine.
Corcial depression: Crimely depression is a wave of electrical activity, which slowly spreads through the cerebral cortex and can be associated with the aura that occurs during migraine with the aura.
Inflammation: Inflammation in the brain and surrounding tissues plays a role in the pathophysiology of migraine. Inflammatory molecules can activate pain receptors and aggravate headache.

Chapter 2: Migraine diagnosis – the key to effective treatment

Proper diagnosis of migraine is an important step in developing an effective treatment plan. Since the symptoms of migraines can overlap with other types of headaches, it is important to consult a doctor for accurate diagnosis.

2.1. Medical examination and medical history:

The doctor will conduct a medical examination and ask in detail about your medical history to evaluate your symptoms, frequency and severity of headaches, possible triggers and other related diseases.

2.2. Migraine diagnostics criteria (international headache society):

To diagnose migraines, the doctor will use the criteria developed by the International Headache Society (IHS). These criteria include:

Migraine without aura:
- At least five attacks corresponding to the BD criteria.
- The headache lasts from 4 to 72 hours (without treatment or with ineffective treatment).
- The headache has at least two of the following characteristics:
  - One -sided localization (one side of the head).
  - Pulsating in nature.
  - Moderate or severe intensity of pain.
  - Deterioration from ordinary physical activity (for example, walking or climbing the stairs) or its avoidance.
- During a headache, there is at least one of the following symptoms:
  - Nausea and/or vomiting.
  - Photophobia and phonophobia.
- Headache is not associated with other diseases.
Migraine with aura:
- At least two seizures corresponding to the criteria b and C.
- The aura consists of at least one of the following fully reversible symptoms:
  - Visual symptoms.
  - Sensory symptoms.
  - Speech disorders.
  - Motor weaknesses.
  - Symptoms of the brain stem (for example, dizziness, diplopia).
  - Symptoms of retina (for example, flickering lights, scotoma).
- At least two of the following signs:
  - One aural symptom gradually develops within 5 minutes and/or two or more symptoms arise sequentially.
  - Each aural symptom lasts from 5 to 60 minutes.
  - The aura is accompanied by a headache for 60 minutes, or a headache can occur simultaneously with an aura or before it.
- Headache is not associated with other diseases.

2.3. Neurological examination:

The doctor can conduct a neurological examination to assess the function of the nervous system, including the test of reflexes, coordination, muscle strength, sensitivity and vision.

2.4. Additional research:

In most cases, additional studies are not required to diagnose migraines. However, if there is a suspicion of another disease that causes headaches, the doctor may prescribe:

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of the brain: MRI allows you to get detailed images of the brain and exclude other causes of brain pain, such as tumors, aneurysms or stroke.
CT (computed tomography) of the brain: CT also allows you to get images of the brain, but using x -rays.
Blood tests: Blood tests can be carried out to exclude other diseases that can cause headaches, such as infections or problems with the thyroid gland.

2.5. Keeping a headache diary:

Making a headache diary can be very useful for determining migraine triggers, tracking the effectiveness of treatment and providing the doctor with valuable information about your headaches. In the headache diary, you should record:

The date and time of the beginning of the headache.
Localization and intensity of pain (for example, on a scale of 1 to 10).
Symptoms accompanying headache (for example, nausea, vomiting, photophobia, phonophobia).
Possible triggers (for example, food, stress, changes in sleep mode).
The medicines that you are taking and their effectiveness.
The duration of the headache.

Chapter 3: Migraine treatment – an integrated approach to relief

Migraine treatment includes both the relief of acute attacks and the prevention of their occurrence. The purpose of treatment is to reduce the frequency, severity and duration of migraine attacks, as well as improve the quality of life.

3.1. Relocation of an acute migraine attack:

Medicines for stopping an acute migraine attack are designed to relieve pain and other symptoms during the attack. These drugs are most effective if you take them as soon as possible after the start of a headache.

Painkillers: Overcomplex painkillers, such as Ibuprofen, Neproxen and Acetaminophene, can be effective for migrants of migraine light and moderate attacks. It is important to observe the recommended dosage and not abuse these drugs, since frequent use can lead to drug-induced headache.
TRIPTA: Triptans are a class of drugs that are specifically designed to treat migraines. They work by narrowing the blood vessels in the brain and blocking the release of neuropeptides, such as CGRP. Triptans are available in various forms, including tablets, nasal sprays and injections. Examples of triptans include collapse, risatriciptan, gymitrippan, intrigipetan, frutriptan and ethletriptan.
Ergotamines: Ergotamines are another class of drugs that are used to treat migraine. They work, narrowing the blood vessels in the brain. Ergotamines are less effective than triptans and have more side effects, therefore they are usually used when triptans are ineffective or contraindicated.
Dihydroergotamin (DGE): DGE is a form of ergotamine, which is available in the form of a nasal spray and injection. It can be effective for the treatment of prolonged or heavy migraine attacks.
Anti -rate funds: Anti -rate agents can help alleviate nausea and vomiting, which often accompany migraines. Examples of antiemetic agents include metoclopramide and coolroperazine.
CGRP antagonists (gapenti): Gapenti is a new class of drugs that block CGRP, a peptide that plays an important role in migraine pathophysiology. Gapenti are available in the form of tablets and can be used to stop a sharp attack of migraine. Examples of gapenti include Riemhegepant and an urogeepant.
Lasmiditan: Lasmiditan is a medicine that selectively affects serotonin receptors involved in migraine pathophysiology. It is available in the form of tablets and can be used to stop a sharp attack of migraine.

3.2. Preventive treatment of migraines:

Preventive treatment of migraine is designed to reduce the frequency, severity and duration of migraine attacks. Preventive drugs are usually taken daily, even if you do not have a headache.

Beta blockers: Beta blockers, such as propranolol and metoprolol, are used to treat high blood pressure and can also be effective for migraine prevention.
Antidepressants: Certain antidepressants, such as amitriptylin and wenlafaxin, can be effective for migraine prevention. They work, acting on neurotransmitters in the brain that participate in pain regulation.
Anticonvulsants: Certain anticonvulsants, such as topiramate and valproic acid, can be effective for migraine prevention.
CGRP antagonists (Erenumab, Freanzumab, Galkanzumab, Eptinesumab): These drugs are monoclonal antibodies that block CGRP or its receptor. They are introduced by injection and can be effective for the prevention of migraine in people who have frequent or severe migraine bouts.
Botulotoxin (Botox): Botulotoxin injections can be effective for the prevention of chronic migraine. Botox is inserted into the muscles of the head and neck and helps to relax muscles and reduce headache.
Magnesium: Magnesium is an important mineral that is involved in many body functions, including the regulation of the nervous system. Magnesium additives can be effective for the prevention of migraine in some people.
Riboflavin (vitamin B2): Riboflavin is an important vitamin that is involved in energy exchange. Riboflavin additives can be effective for the prevention of migraine in some people.
Coenzim q10: Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant that is involved in energy metabolism. Coenzyme supplements Q10 can be effective for the prevention of migraine in some people.
Petrushechnoye grass (parsley medicinal): Some studies show that parsley grass can be effective for migraine prevention.

3.3. Non -drug methods for treating migraines:

In addition to drugs, there are a number of non -drug treatment methods that can help relieve migraine symptoms and prevent attacks.

Biological feedback: Biological feedback is a method that allows you to learn how to control certain physiological functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure and muscle tension. Biological feedback can help reduce stress and stress that can cause migraine.
Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a method of traditional Chinese medicine, which includes the introduction of thin needles into certain points on the body. Acupuncture can help relieve pain and reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.
Massage: Massage can help relax the muscles of the head and neck and reduce the tension that can cause migraine.
Yoga: Yoga is a practice that includes physical poses, breathing exercises and meditation. Yoga can help reduce stress, improve flexibility and strengthen muscles, which can help prevent migraine.
Meditation: Meditation is a practice that includes focusing on this moment. Meditation can help reduce stress, improve concentration and reduce pain.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT): KPT is a type of psychotherapy that helps people change negative thoughts and behavior that can cause migraine. KPT can help reduce stress, improve the skills of overcoming difficulties and reduce pain.
Stress management: Stress management is an important component of migraine treatment. Stress management techniques, such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing and biological feedback, can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.
Diet and lifestyle: A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular physical exercises and sufficient sleep, can help prevent migraine. It is important to avoid migraine triggers, such as certain foods, drinks and environmental factors.

Chapter 4: Alternative and additional methods for treating migraines

Many people with migraine turn to alternative and additional treatment methods to alleviate the symptoms and improve the quality of life. It is important to discuss any alternative methods of treatment with your doctor to make sure that they are safe and do not interact with other medicines that you take.

Herbal additives: Some herbal additives, such as white -skinned, ginger and lavender, can be effective for the treatment of migraine. However, it is important to talk with your doctor before taking any herbal additives, as they can interact with other drugs.
Essential oils: Some essential oils, such as peppermint, lavender and eucalyptus, can help relieve headache if they rub them into whiskey or inhale.
Homeopathy: Homeopathy is an alternative medical system based on the principle of “like this.” Some people with migraine find homeopathic remedies useful, but scientific evidence of the effectiveness of homeopathy is limited.
Osteopathy and manual therapy: Osteopathy and manual therapy are treatment methods that include manipulations with bones and soft body tissues. These methods can help improve the function of the spine and reduce the voltage that can cause migraine.
Cannabis: Some studies show that cannabis can be effective for the treatment of migraine. However, it is important to note that the legality of the use of cannabis varies depending on the country and the state.

Chapter 5: Migraine and related diseases

Migraine is often found along with other diseases, such as depression, anxiety, insomnia and irritable intestinal syndrome. It is important to treat all related diseases, as they can aggravate the symptoms of migraines and complicate treatment.

Depression and anxiety: Depression and anxiety are often found in people with migraine. Treatment of depression and anxiety with drugs or psychotherapy can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.
Insomnia: Insomnia is often found in people with migraine. Improving sleep hygiene and insomnia treatment with drugs or cognitive-behavioral therapy can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.
Irritable intestine syndrome (SRK): SRK is often found in people with migraine. Treatment of IBS using a diet, drugs or psychotherapy can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.
Epilepsy: Migraine and epilepsy have some common mechanisms and can meet together. It is important to distinguish between migraine and epilepsy and treat them accordingly.
Stroke: Migraine with an aura can increase the risk of stroke, especially in women taking oral contraceptives. It is important to control the risk factors of stroke, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking.

Chapter 6: Migraine in different periods of life

Migraine can affect people in different periods of life, including childhood, adolescence, pregnancy and menopause. It is important to consider these factors when developing a treatment plan for migraine.

Migraine in childhood: Migraine can appear in children in various ways, including abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, in addition to headaches. Migraine treatment in children may include changes in lifestyle, medicine and biological feedback.
Migraine in adolescence: Migraine often begins in adolescence, especially in girls. Hormonal changes, stress and lack of sleep can contribute to the development of migraine in adolescence.
Migraine and pregnancy: Many women experience changes in their migraines during pregnancy. In some women, migraine improves, in others it worsens. It is important to discuss the treatment of migraines during pregnancy with your doctor to make sure that the drugs you take are safe for you and your child.
Migraine and menopause: The hormonal changes occurring during menopause can affect migraine. In some women, migraine improves after menopause, in others it worsens. Hormonal therapy can help alleviate the symptoms of migraines associated with menopause.

Chapter 7: Migraine and Covid-19

Covid-19 pandemic had a significant impact on people’s lives with migraine. Stress, anxiety, changes in sleep mode and social isolation can aggravate the symptoms of migraines. In addition, the Covid-19 can cause a headache, which can be difficult to distinguish from migraine. It is important to discuss with a doctor any changes in your migraine associated with the COVID-19.

Chapter 8: Resources and support for people with migraine

Life with migraine can be difficult, but there are resources and support that can help.

Medical organizations: There are various medical organizations involved in the research of migraines and support for people with migraine. These organizations can provide information about migraines, accessible treatment methods and doctors specializing in the treatment of migraines.
Support groups: Support groups for people with migraines can provide a valuable opportunity to share experience, get support and learn about new treatment methods.
Online resources: There are many online resources that provide information about migraines, forums for communicating with other people with migraine and tools for tracking headaches and triggers.
Doctor: It is important to regularly visit a doctor to discuss the treatment of migraine and track progress.

Chapter 9: The Future of Migraine Treatment

Migraine studies continue, and new treatment methods are being developed that can improve the lives of people with migraine.

New medications: New drugs are being developed that are aimed at specific mechanisms involved in migraine pathophysiology. These drugs can be more effective and have less side effects than existing treatment methods.
Neuromodulation: Neuromodulation is a method that uses electrical or magnetic impulses to stimulate or suppress the activity of nerve cells in the brain. Neuromodulation can be effective for the treatment of migraine, acting on specific areas of the brain involved in migraine pathophysiology.
Gene therapy: Gene therapy is a method that includes the introduction of genes into cells to treat diseases. Gene therapy can be effective for the treatment of migraine, affecting genetic factors that contribute to the development of migraine.

Chapter 10: Life without migraine: APPRIENCEM

Although migraine can be a chronic disease, proper treatment and lifestyle can help reduce the frequency, severity and duration of migraine attacks and improve the quality of life. It is important to work with your doctor in order to develop an individual treatment plan that takes into account your specific needs and circumstances. With patience, perseverance and the right approach, you can achieve significant relief and live a full life, free from migraine.

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