Migraine: long -term solutions for life without pain

Migraine: long -term solutions for life without pain

I. Understanding of migraines: a deep view of the mechanisms and causes

Migraine is more than just a headache. This is a complex neurological disease characterized by intense, pulsating headaches, often accompanied by other exhausting symptoms. For an effective fight against migraine, it is necessary to understand its internal mechanisms and potential triggers.

A. Neurological foundations of migraines:

Migraine is the result of a complex combination of genetic predispositions and environmental factors. At the heart are violations in the work of the nervous system, including:

1. Trigeminal nervous system: This nervous system, which is responsible for the sensitivity of the face and head, plays a key role in migraines. Activation of the trigeminal nerve leads to the release of neuropeptides, such as CGRP (calcitonin-hen-tied peptide), which cause the expansion of blood vessels in the brain and inflammation.
2. Crimely spreading depression (CRD): This is a wave of neural activity, spreading through the cerebral cortex and causing various symptoms of aura, such as visual disorders, tingling in the limbs and speech problems. KRD can also activate the trigeminal nervous system.
3. Neurotransmitter: The imbalance of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine and glutamate, can contribute to the development of migraine. Serotonin, in particular, plays an important role in the regulation of pain and mood.
4. Hypothalamus: This area of ​​the brain, which is responsible for the regulation of many body functions, including sleep, appetite and hormonal balance, can also be involved in the pathogenesis of migraines. Disorders in the functioning of the hypothalamus can affect the frequency and intensity of seizures.
5. Genetic predisposition: Studies show that migraine has a strong genetic component. The presence of close relatives with migraine significantly increases the risk of developing the disease.

B. Factors provoking migraines (triggers):

The definition and avoidance of triggers is an important step in managing migraine. Triggers can be different for each person, and their identification requires attentive observation and maintenance of a headache diary. The most common triggers include:

1. Nutrition: Some products and drinks can provoke migraines. These include:
   • Alcohol: Especially red wine, beer and strong drinks.
   • Tramin products: Reduced cheeses, smoked meat, fermented products.
   • Nitrate products: Sausages, sausages, bacon.
   • Artificial sweeteners: Aspartam.
   • Caffeine: Both excess and a sharp rejection of caffeine can provoke migraines.
   • Chocolate: Contains phenylethylamine, which can cause headache in some people.
2. Stress: Psychological stress is one of the most common migraine triggers. Stress can lead to muscle tension, a change in the level of hormones and sleep disturbance, which, in turn, can provoke an attack.
3. Hormonal changes: In women, migraine is often associated with a menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause. Estrogen level changes can cause attacks.
4. Dream: The lack of sleep, an excess of sleep or a change in sleep mode can provoke migraines. It is important to maintain regular sleep schedule.
5. Weather changes: Swanks of atmospheric pressure, temperature and humidity can cause migraine in some people.
6. Bright light and noise: Bright, flickering light, loud noise and pungent odors can be migraine triggers.
7. Passing meals: Unregular nutrition and passage of meals can lead to a decrease in blood sugar, which can provoke migraines.
8. Dehydration: Inadequate fluid use can cause headache, including migraine.
9. Physical activity: Intensive physical activity can provoke migraines in some people.
10. Medicines: Some drugs, such as vasodilating agents, can cause headache.
11. Environment: Smoke, chemicals and strong smells can be migraine triggers.

C. Types of migraines:

There are several types of migraines, each of which has its own characteristics:

1. Migraine with aura: About 25% of people with migraines in front of a headache appear aura. Aura is a complex of neurological symptoms such as visual disorders (for example, flickering zigzags, blind spots), sensory disorders (for example, tingling in the limbs) and problems with speech. The aura usually lasts from 5 to 60 minutes and takes place before the start of a headache.
2. Migraine without aura: This is the most common type of migraine. The headache develops without preliminary symptoms of the aura.
3. Chronic migraine: It is diagnosed in the presence of headaches for 15 or more days a month for more than 3 months, while headache corresponds to migraine criteria for at least 8 days a month.
4. Hemiplegic migraine: A rare type of migraine, characterized by weakness or paralysis of one side of the body (hemiplegia) during the attack. Hemiplegic migraine can be family or sporadic.
5. Ophthalmoplegic migraine: A very rare type of migraine, characterized by paralysis of the muscles of the eye, which leads to double eyes and other problems with vision.
6. Basial migraine (migraine with symptoms from the brain stem): It is characterized by symptoms emanating from the brain stem, such as dizziness, noise in the ears, impaired coordination, vision problems and impaired consciousness.
7. Silent Migraine Migraine: A person experiences symptoms of migraines, such as aura, nausea and sensitivity to light and sound, but without a headache.

II. Long -term migraine management strategies: integrated approach

Migraine management is a long -term process that requires an individual approach and a combination of various strategies. The goal is to reduce the frequency, intensity and duration of seizures, as well as improve the quality of life.

A. Life and self -help:

1. Headache diary: Keeping a headache diary is an important tool for identifying triggers and evaluating treatment effectiveness. The diary should be recorded, the start and end of the headache, the intensity of pain (on a scale from 0 to 10), symptoms, drugs taken, potential triggers and any other factors that can be associated with headache.
2. Regular sleep schedule: Compliance with regular sleep schedule, even on weekends, helps to stabilize biorhythms and reduce the risk of migraine. It is recommended to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.
3. Healthy nutrition: A balanced diet with regular meals helps maintain a stable blood sugar level and prevents migraines caused by hunger. It is important to avoid products that are potential triggers.
4. Regular physical exercises: Moderate physical activity, such as walking, swimming or yoga, help reduce stress, improve blood circulation and reduce the migraine frequency. It is important to avoid intense exercises that can provoke an attack.
5. Stress management: Stress is one of the most common migraine triggers. Effective stress management methods include:
   • Meditation and Minfulness: Regular meditation and practices of Minfulnes help reduce stress and improve awareness.
   • Yoga: Yoga combines physical exercises, breathing techniques and meditation, which helps relieve tension and improve well -being.
   • Respiratory exercises: Deep breathing helps to reduce stress and improve relaxation.
   • Progressive muscle relaxation: This technique includes consistent tension and relaxation of various muscle groups, which helps relieve muscle tension and reduce stress.
   • Time management: Time planning and priority placement help reduce the feeling of overload and reduce stress.
   • Psychotherapy: Consultations with a psychologist or psychotherapist can help cope with stress and anxiety associated with migraine.
6. Hydration: Sufficient consumption of liquid (water, herbal tea) helps to prevent dehydration, which can provoke migraine. It is recommended to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.
7. Avoiding triggers: After identifying migraine triggers, it is important to avoid them or minimize the effect. This may require changes in the diet, lifestyle and environment.
8. Ergonomics: Proper posture and ergonomic workplace help prevent muscle tension and headache caused by prolonged sitting at the computer.

B. Alternative treatment methods:

1. Acupuncture: Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that includes the introduction of thin needles into certain points on the body. Studies show that acupuncture can be effective for reducing the frequency and intensity of migraine.
2. Biological feedback (biofidbek): Biofidbek is a method that allows people to learn how to control certain physiological processes, such as heart rate, blood pressure and muscle tension. Biofidbek can help reduce stress and muscle voltage associated with migraine.
3. Massage: Massage helps to relax muscles, relieve tension and improve blood circulation, which can reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine.
4. Herbal products and food additives: Some herbal products and food additives can be useful for migraine prevention. These include:
   • Riboflavin (vitamin B2): Studies show that riboflavin can reduce the frequency of migraine.
   • Coenzim q10: Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant that plays an important role in the production of energy in cells. Studies show that Coenzyme Q10 can reduce the migraine frequency.
   • Magnesium: Magnesium deficiency can contribute to the development of migraine. Reception of magnesium additives can help reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures.
   • Belokotynik (Petasites Hybridus): White -skinned extract can be effective for migraine prevention. However, before the use of white -skinnedness, it is necessary to consult a doctor, since it may contain toxic substances.
   • Ginger: Ginger has anti -inflammatory properties and can help reduce nausea associated with migraine.
5. Meditation and yoga: As mentioned earlier, meditation and yoga are effective stress management methods that can help reduce the migraine frequency.

C. Drug treatment:

Migrant treatment of migraine includes two main types of drugs: preparations for stopping attacks (abortive drugs) and drugs for migraine prevention (preventive agents).

1. Preparations for stopping seizures (abortion): These drugs are taken in case of headache in order to stop or reduce its intensity. These include:
   • Painkillers: Non -steroidal anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Ibuprofen, steady and diclofenac, can be effective with mild and moderate migraine attacks. Aspirin can also be useful.
   • TRIPTA: Triptans are specific medicines for the treatment of migraines, which act by narrowing of blood vessels in the brain and blocking the release of neuropeptides, such as CGRP. Triptans include summptor, gymitripphan, intrigratyptan, risatriciptan, alihriperiptan, ethletriptan and frutitripitan.
   • Dihydroergotamin (DGE): DGE is a medicine that also narrows blood vessels in the brain. It is available in the form of injections, nasal spray and tablets.
   • Lazmiditan: Lazmiditan is a new drug for the treatment of migraine, which acts by selective effect on serotonin receptors. It does not narrow the blood vessels and can be safer for people with cardiovascular diseases.
   • CGRP antagonists: Hyander (rimegepant) and out -of -thepower are CGRP receptor antagonists, which block the action of CGRP, neuropeptide, which plays a key role in migraine.
2. Migraine prevention drugs (preventive agents): These drugs are taken daily to reduce the frequency, intensity and duration of migraine attacks. These include:
   • Beta blockers: Beta blockers, such as propranolol and metoprolol, are often used to prevent migraine. They act by blocking the action of adrenaline, which can reduce the frequency of attacks.
   • Calcium channel blockers: Calcium channel blockers, such as fluanarisis and verapamil, can be effective for migraine prevention. They act by blocking the flow of calcium into the cells of the brain, which can reduce the excitability of neurons.
   • Antidepressants: Some antidepressants, such as amitriptylin and wenlafaxin, can be effective for migraine prevention. They act by increasing the level of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which can reduce pain sensitivity.
   • Anticonvulsants: Some anticonvulsants, such as topiramate and valproic acid, can be effective for migraine prevention. They act by stabilizing neural activity in the brain.
   • Botulinic toxin type A (Botox): Botox injections in the muscles of the head and neck can be effective for the prevention of chronic migraine. Botox blocks the release of neurotransmitters that participate in the transmission of pain signals.
   • Monoclonal antibodies to CGRP or its receptor: Erenyumab, Fremenzumab, Galkanzumab and Eptynesumab are monoclonal antibodies that block the action of CGRP or its receptor. They are introduced subcutaneously or intravenously and can be effective for the prevention of migraine.

D. Neurostimulation:

Neurostimulation is a treatment method that uses electrical or magnetic impulses to stimulate the nervous system. Some types of neurostimulations can be effective for the treatment of migraine. These include:

1. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS): TMS uses magnetic impulses to stimulate certain areas of the brain. It can be used both to stop migraine attacks, and for prevention.
2. Transcranial stimulation direct current (TSPT): TSPT uses a weak electric current to stimulate certain areas of the brain. It can be used to prevent migraine.
3. Stimulation of the vagus nerve (SBN): SBN includes stimulation of the vagus nerve, which is an important nerve connecting the brain to internal organs. SBN can be effective for the treatment of migraines.
4. Burnt electrical stimulation of nerves (Chens): Chens uses weak electrical impulses to stimulate nerves on the surface of the skin. It can be used to reduce pain associated with migraine.

III. Individual treatment plan: Cooperation with a doctor

The development of an effective treatment for migraine requires close cooperation with the doctor. The doctor can help:

• Make an accurate diagnosis: Migraine can be mistaken for other types of headache. The doctor can conduct an examination and prescribe the necessary studies to exclude other causes of headache.
• Determine triggers: The doctor can help identify migraine triggers and develop a plan to avoid them.
• Prescribe drugs: The doctor may prescribe medications to stop migraine attacks and for prevention.
• Recommend alternative treatment methods: The doctor may recommend alternative treatment methods such as acupuncture, biofidback and massage.
• Control the effectiveness of treatment: The doctor will regularly evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and adjust it if necessary.
• Direct to specialists: The doctor can send to a neurologist, a headache specialist or other specialists, if necessary.

It is important to actively participate in the treatment process, ask a doctor and report any changes in the symptoms. Keeping a headache diary can help the doctor evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and make the necessary adjustments.

IV. Psychological support and adaptation:

Migraine can have a significant impact on the quality of life, leading to restrictions on work, study, social activity and personal relationships. Psychological support can help cope with the emotional and psychological consequences of migraines.

• Consultations with a psychologist or psychotherapist: Psychotherapy can help cope with stress, anxiety, depression and other emotional problems associated with migraine. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT) and therapy for acceptance and responsibility (TPO) are effective approaches to controlling chronic pain.
• Support groups: Participation in support groups can help to feel less alone and get support from other people living with migraine.
• Training in coping skills: Training in coping skills, such as relaxation, stress management and solving problems, can help improve the quality of life and reduce the influence of migraine.
• Self -help: Studying information about migraine, reading books and articles, as well as participation in online forums can help better understand the disease and find ways to manage them.
• Social support: Communication with friends and family, as well as obtaining support from them, can help to cope with the emotional and psychological consequences of migraines.

V. Studies and new treatment methods:

Migraine studies are constantly developing, and new treatment methods appear. It is important to keep abreast of the latest achievements and discuss with the doctor the possibility of participating in clinical research.

• New drugs: New drugs are being developed for the treatment of migraines, including drugs that affect CGRP and other neuropeptides participating in the pathogenesis of migraines.
• New methods of neurostimulations: New methods of neurostimulations are investigated, such as trigeminal stimulation and ardent nerve stimulation.
• Genetic research: Genetic studies are conducted aimed at identifying genes related to migraine, which can lead to the development of new methods of treatment based on genetic information.
• Life Life Research: Studies are conducted aimed at studying the influence of lifestyle on migraine, such as diet, physical exercises and sleep.

VI. Life with migraine: adaptation and positive mood

Life with migraine can be complicated, but with the right approach you can adapt to the disease and live a full life.

• Acceptance: The adoption that migraine is a chronic disease that requires constant management can help reduce stress and improve well -being.
• Positive attitude: Preserving a positive attitude and focusing on what can be controlled can help cope with the difficulties associated with migraine.
• Realistic expectations: It is important to have realistic expectations regarding the treatment of migraine. A complete cure is not always possible, but you can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks and improve the quality of life.
• Caring for yourself: It is important to devote time to care of yourself, doing the fact that it brings pleasure and helps to relax.
• Social activity: It is important to maintain social activity and not isolated from friends and family.
• Planning: Planning of activity, taking into account possible migraine, can help avoid disappointment and facilitate the management of the disease.
• Training: Learning surrounding migraine information can help them better understand the disease and support them.
• Persistence: It is important to be persistent in finding effective methods of treatment and not to give up, even if treatment does not immediately bring results.

Migraine is a complex disease that requires a comprehensive approach to treatment. Compliance with a healthy lifestyle, avoiding triggers, drug treatment, alternative methods of treatment, neurostimulation and psychological support – all these are important components of migraine management. Close cooperation with a doctor and active participation in the treatment process can help significantly improve the quality of life and live without pain.