How to get rid of migraines forever: doctors’ advice

How to get rid of migraines forever: doctors’ advice

Chapter 1: Understanding Migraine: more than just a headache

Migraine is much more than just a severe headache. This is a neurological disease characterized by intense, pulsating headaches, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine can significantly affect the quality of life of a person, interfering with work, study and daily activities.

1.1. Migraine types:

• Migraine with aura: It is a headache accompanied by neurological symptoms called aura. The aura may include visual disorders (for example, flickering lights, zigzag lines, blind spots), sensory changes (for example, tingling, numbness) or speech disorders. The aura usually lasts from 5 to 60 minutes and precedes the headache.
• Migraine without aura: The most common type of migraine, which is not accompanied by aura. The headache is characterized by intense, pulsating pain, usually on one side of the head.
• Chronic migraine: Migraine is considered chronic if headaches occur 15 or more days a month for at least three months, and at least 8 days of these 15 corresponds to migraine criteria.
• Hemiplegic migraine: A rare type of migraine, characterized by weakness or paralysis (hemiplegia) of one side of the body. Symptoms can simulate a stroke.
• Basial type migraine: A rare type of migraine with an aura that occurs from the barrel of the brain. Symptoms may include dizziness, double -gathering, slurred speech and loss of coordination.
• Abdominal migraine: It is found mainly in children. It is manifested by bouts of severe abdominal pain, accompanied by nausea, vomiting and pallor. Headache may be absent.

1.2. Migraines symptoms:

Symptoms of migraines can vary from person to person and from an attack to the attack. General symptoms include:

• Intensive, pulsating headache: Usually on one side of the head, but can be bilateral.
• Nausea and vomiting: Often accompanying headache.
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia): Bright light can enhance headache.
• Sensitivity to sound (phonophobia): Loud sounds can enhance headache.
• Sensitivity to smells (osmophobia): Some smells can cause or aggravate headache.
• Dizziness: A feeling of instability or rotation.
• Visualness of vision: Temporary visual impairment.
• Fatigue: A feeling of strong fatigue.
• Difficulties with concentration: Problems with focusing attention and memory.
• Irritability: A feeling of irritation and impatience.

1.3. Migraine stages:

Migraine often develops in several stages:

• PROMROM (NEW): It can advance a few hours or days before a headache. Symptoms may include mood changes, fatigue, traction to certain food, constipation or diarrhea.
• Aura (not everyone): Neurological symptoms, such as visual, sensory or speech disorders.
• Headache: Intensive, pulsating pain, usually on one side of the head.
• Postdrom (after an attack): After a headache, a feeling of fatigue, weakness, confusion or difficulties with concentration of attention may remain.

Chapter 2: Causes and risk factors of migraine

The causes of migraine have not been fully studied, but it is believed that they are associated with a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

2.1. Genetics:

Migraine tends to be inherited. If you have close relatives suffering from migraine, you have an increased risk of developing this disease. Studies have identified several genes associated with migraine.

2.2. Neurological factors:

• Changes in neurotransmitters: Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the brain that transmit signals between nerve cells. Changes in the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and glutamate can play a role in the development of migraine.
• Activation of trigeminal nerve: The trigeminal nerve is a large nerve that is responsible for sensation in the face and head. Activation of this nerve can lead to the release of substances that cause inflammation and pain.
• Crossing cortical depression: A slow wave of electrical activity, which spreads through the cerebral cortex. It is believed that this phenomenon is associated with the aura of migraine.

2.3. Environment and lifestyle factors:

Many environmental and lifestyle factors can provoke migraine in susceptible people. These include:

• Stress: Stress is one of the most common migraine triggers.
• Changes in sleep mode: The lack of sleep, excess sleep or change in sleep mode can cause migraine.
• Missed meals: Passing for food intake can lead to a decrease in blood sugar, which can provoke migraines.
• Dehydration: Insufficient fluid consumption can cause migraine.
• Weather changes: Changes in atmospheric pressure, temperature or humidity can provoke migraines.
• Certain products and drinks: Some products and drinks such as aged cheeses, treated meat, chocolate, caffeine and alcohol (especially red wine) can cause migraine.
• Artificial sweeteners: Aspartems and other artificial sweeteners can provoke migraines in some people.
• Bright light, loud sounds and strong smells: These sensory incentives can cause migraine.
• Physical strain: Intensive physical exercises can provoke migraines.
• Hormonal changes: In women, migraine is often associated with a menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause.
• Medicines: Some drugs, such as oral contraceptives and nitrates, can cause migraine.

2.4. Risk factors:

Some factors can increase the risk of migraine development:

• Family history of migraines: The presence of close relatives suffering from migraine.
• Women’s floor: Women often suffer from migraine than men.
• Age: Migraine usually begins in adolescence or early adulthood.
• Other diseases: Some diseases, such as depression, anxiety disorders and epilepsy, can increase the risk of migraine.

Chapter 3: Migraine Diagnostics: How does the doctor make a diagnosis

Migraine diagnosis is usually based on a patient’s history, a description of symptoms and a physical examination. The doctor can ask questions about the frequency, intensity and duration of headaches, as well as the concomitant symptoms and potential triggers.

3.1. Medical history:

The doctor will ask about your history of headaches, including:

• When did headaches begin?
• How often do you have headaches?
• How long has headaches last?
• Where do you feel pain?
• What is the intensity of pain (on a scale from 1 to 10)?
• What symptoms accompany headache (for example, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound)?
• What facilitates or exacerbates a headache?
• What medications do you take?
• Do you have any other diseases?
• Do you have a family history of migraines?

3.2. Physical examination:

The doctor will conduct a physical examination to exclude other possible causes of headache, such as:

• Checking blood pressure: High blood pressure can cause headache.
• Neurological inspection: Checking reflexes, muscle strength, coordination and sensitivity.
• Eye examination: View and eye view.
• Palpation of the head and neck: Checking for the presence of pain or tension in the muscles.

3.3. Diagnostic tests:

In most cases, diagnostic tests are not required to diagnose migraines. However, if the doctor has suspicions of other diseases, he can prescribe the following tests:

• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of the brain: Uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the brain. MRI can help exclude brain tumors, aneurysm or other structural anomalies.
• CT (computed tomography) of the brain: Uses x -rays to create transverse images of the brain. CT can be prescribed in emergency cases when it is required to quickly eliminate hemorrhage in the brain or other serious conditions.
• Blood test: It can be prescribed to exclude infections, inflammatory diseases or other medical conditions that can cause headache.

3.4. Migraine diagnostics criteria (international headache society-ICHD-3):

The International Headache Society (ICHD) has developed clear criteria for migraine diagnosis. ICHD-3 criteria for migraine without aura include:

• At least 5 seizures corresponding to the following 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.
    • It intensifies with ordinary physical activity or leads to its avoidance (for example, walking or climbing the stairs).
  • During a headache, there is at least one of the following symptoms:
    • Nausea and/or vomiting.
    • Photophobia and phonophobia.
• Not explained by another disorder.

ICHD-3 criteria for migraine with aura include:

• At least 2 seizures corresponding to the following criteria:
  • The aura consists of one or more of the following fully reversible symptoms:
    • Visual symptoms (for example, flickering lights, zigzag lines, blind spots).
    • Sensory symptoms (for example, tingling, numbness).
    • Speech symptoms (for example, difficulties with the selection of words).
    • Motor symptoms (for example, weakness).
    • Symptoms of the brain stem (for example, dizziness, double eyes).
    • Retinal symptoms (for example, temporary loss of vision in one eye).
  • At least three of the following six characteristics:
    • At least one symptom of the aura gradually spreads within ≥5 minutes.
    • Two or more symptom of the aura arise sequentially.
    • Each symptom of the aura lasts 5-60 minutes.
    • The aura is one -sided.
    • The aura is accompanied by a headache for 60 minutes.
    • Exclude another disorder.
• Not explained by another disorder.

Chapter 4: Migraine treatment: Strategies to relieve pain and prevention of seizures

Migraine treatment is aimed at facilitating pain during attacks and preventing their occurrence. Treatment may include medicines, changes in lifestyle and alternative treatment methods.

4.1. Medicines for stopping migraine attacks (abortive drugs):

These drugs are taken during a migraine attack to relieve pain and other symptoms.

• Painkillers:
  • Right -up painkillers: Ibuprofen, steady, aspirin and paracetamol can be effective for migrants of migraine light and moderate attacks. It is important to take them as soon as possible after the start of a headache. Excessive use of over -the -counter painkillers can lead to headaches from drug abuse.
  • Recipe painkillers: Ketorolac (Ketanov) is a non -steroidal anti -inflammatory drug (NSAID), which can be administered intramuscularly to quickly relieve pain.
• TRIPTA: Specific drugs for the treatment of migraines, which narrow the blood vessels in the brain and block the release of substances that cause pain. Examples: Cermeterent (Imigrans), Risatriciptan (Maxult), Zolmitriptan (Zomig), Naratriptan (Amerj), Eletripan (Relpaks), Frovitriptan (Frov). Triptans are most effective if they are taken at an early stage of a migraine attack. They are not suitable for people with heart diseases or a history of strokes.
• Dihydroergotamin (DGE): Another medicine that narrows blood vessels in the brain. DGE is available in the form of injections, nasal spray and tablets. It can be effective for strong migraine attacks, but can cause side effects, such as nausea and vomiting.
• Lasmiditan (Ryov): The agonist of serotonin 5-HT1F receptors, which does not cause narrowing of blood vessels. This makes it safe for people with heart diseases.
• Hypers (CGRP Antagonists): Obrogeepant (Ubreverey) and Rimegepant (Nurtek ODT) block the action of CGRP (calcitonin-hen-tied peptide), which plays a role in the development of migraine.

4.2. Migraine prevention (preventive drugs):

These drugs are taken daily to reduce the frequency, intensity and duration of migraine attacks. Preventive treatment is recommended if you have 4 or more migraine attacks per month or if your migraine attacks significantly affect your life.

• Beta blockers: Propranolol (anaprilin), metoprolol (betalka) and Atenolol (tenormine) are often used to prevent migraine. They can reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches.
• Antidepressants: Amitriptyin (elavilia) and Wenlafaxin (effect) can be effective for the prevention of migraine, even if you do not have depression. They can increase the level of serotonin in the brain, which can help reduce headaches.
• Anticonvulsants: Topiramate (topamax) and valproic acid (depicot) are used to prevent migraine. They can stabilize electrical activity in the brain and reduce the frequency of headaches.
• CGRP monoclonal antibodies: Elendumab (Aimovig), Freanzumab (Aiovi), Galkanzumab (Emmgaliti) and Eptinesumab (Viepti) are new drugs that block the effect of CGRP. They are introduced in the form of monthly or quarterly injections and can significantly reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.
• Calcium channel blockers: Flunarizin.
• Botulotoxin (Botox): Botox injections can be effective for the prevention of chronic migraine (15 or more head pain per month). Botox is inserted into the muscles of the head and neck to block nerve signals that cause headache.

4.3. Changes in the lifestyle:

Making changes to the lifestyle can help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks.

• Determine and avoid triggers: Keep a headache diary to determine what factors can cause your migraines. Avoid these triggers as much as possible.
• Manage stress: Use stress management methods such as yoga, meditation, tai-chi or progressive muscle relaxation.
• Observe sleep mode: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
• Regularly engage in physical exercises: Moderate physical exercises can help reduce stress and improve the overall health.
• Ask regularly: Do not skip food meals and have a snack with healthy foods during the day to maintain a stable blood sugar level.
• Drink enough liquids: Dehydration can cause migraine. Try to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.
• Limit the consumption of caffeine and alcohol: Caffeine and alcohol can cause migraine in some people.
• Avoid processed foods: Processed foods often contain additives and preservatives that can cause migraine.

4.4. Alternative treatment methods:

Some people find relief from migraine using alternative treatment methods.

• Iglowerie (acupuncture): It can help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks.
• Biological feedback (biofidbek): Teaches to control certain physiological functions, such as heart rate and muscle tension, which can help reduce stress and headaches.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT): Helps to learn how to cope with stress and pain.
• Massage: It can help relax muscles and reduce stress.
• Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS): Uses magnetic impulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. TMS can be effective for the treatment of migraine with an aura.
• Supplements: Some additives can help prevent migraine, including magnesium, riboflavin (vitamin B2) and Coenzyme Q10. It is important to consult a doctor before taking any additives.
• Cannabidol (IBD): Some studies show that the KBD can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with migraine. However, additional studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of the KBD for the treatment of migraine.

Chapter 5: Chronic migraine management: long -term strategies

Chronic migraine requires an integrated approach to treatment, which includes medicines, changes in lifestyle and alternative treatment methods. It is important to work in close contact with the doctor in order to develop an individual treatment plan.

5.1. Medicines for the prevention of chronic migraine:

In addition to the drugs listed in section 4.2, the following drugs can be used to prevent chronic migraine:

• Botulotoxin (Botox): Approved for the treatment of chronic migraines. Botox injections are introduced into the muscles of the head and neck every 12 weeks.
• CGRP monoclonal antibodies: Effective for reducing the frequency of headaches in chronic migraine.

5.2. Life in chronic migraines:

• Regular mode: Observe the constant sleep, nutrition and physical exercises.
• Stress management: Use stress control methods to reduce the frequency of headaches.
• Avoid triggers: Determine and avoid migraine triggers as much as possible.
• Moisturization: Drink enough water.
• Healthy nutrition: Adhere to a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole cereals.

5.3. Alternative methods of treating chronic migraines:

• Acupuncture: It can help reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches.
• Biological feedback: Helps to learn how to control physiological functions, which can reduce stress and headaches.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy: Helps to learn how to cope with chronic pain and stress.
• Massage: It can help relax muscles and reduce stress.
• Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS): It can be effective for the treatment of chronic migraines.

5.4. Headache from drug abuse (drug headache):

Excessive use of painkillers can lead to headache from drug abuse. If you take painkillers for more than 10 days a month, you may develop this type of headache. Treatment of headaches from abuse of drugs includes a gradual cessation of taking painkillers under the supervision of a doctor.

Chapter 6: Migraine and Pregnancy: Features of treatment

Migraine often improves during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters. However, in some women, migraine may worsen during pregnancy. It is important to consult a doctor to develop a safe treatment for migraine during pregnancy.

6.1. Migraine treatment during pregnancy:

• Changes in the lifestyle: Are the main method of treating migraines during pregnancy.
  • Avoid triggers: Determine and avoid migraine triggers.
  • Manage stress: Use stress control methods.
  • Observe sleep mode: Provide a sufficient sleep.
  • Ask regularly: Do not skip food meals.
  • Moisturization: Drink enough liquid.
• Medicines:
  • Paracetamol (acetaminophen): It is considered safe for use during pregnancy in recommended doses.
  • TRIPTA: The use of triptans during pregnancy is the subject of disputes. Some studies show that they can be safe, but additional studies are needed. Your doctor may prescribe a tripan if the benefit exceeds the risk.
  • Other drugs: Most other drugs for the treatment of migraine are not recommended during pregnancy.

6.2. Migraine treatment during breastfeeding:

• Most medicines for the treatment of migraine are safe for use during breastfeeding.
  • Paracetamol: It is considered safe.
  • Ibuprofen: It is considered safe.
  • TRIPTA: They are considered safe, but it is recommended to breastfeed the baby before taking the medicine and avoid breastfeeding for 2-4 hours after taking.

Chapter 7: Migraine in children and adolescents: a special approach

Migraine can occur in children and adolescents. Symptoms of migraines in children may differ from symptoms in adults. For example, in children, abdominal migraines are more often observed, which are characterized by abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.

7.1. Diagnosis of migraine in children and adolescents:

Diagnosis of migraine in children and adolescents is based on a history, description of symptoms and physical examination. The doctor can use the ICHD-3 criteria to diagnose migraine.

7.2. Migraine treatment in children and adolescents:

Treatment of migraines in children and adolescents is aimed at relieved pain and prevent attacks.

• Changes in the lifestyle: They are an important part of the treatment of migraines in children and adolescents.
  • Determine and avoid triggers: Keep a headache diary to determine which factors cause migraine.
  • Observe sleep mode: Provide enough sleep.
  • Ask regularly: Do not skip food meals.
  • Manage stress: Use stress control methods such as deep breathing, yoga or meditation.
• Medicines:
  • Painkillers: Paracetamol and ibuprofen can be effective for migrant migraine light and moderate attacks. It is important to observe the dosage recommended by the doctor.
  • TRIPTA: Migraines can be appointed teenagers with strong bouts of migraine. There are triptans approved for use by adolescents.

7.3. Migraine prevention in children and adolescents:

If your child has frequent or strong migraine bouts, the doctor can recommend preventive treatment.

• Medicines: Some drugs used to prevent migraine in adults can also be used in children and adolescents, such as proponolol and topiramate.
• Alternative treatment methods: Biological feedback and cognitive-behavioral therapy can be effective for the prevention of migraine in children and adolescents.

Chapter 8: Life with Migraine: Tips to improve the quality of life

Life with migraine can be complicated, but there are many ways to improve the quality of life.

• Take your diagnosis: The recognition that you have a migraine is the first step to manage this disease.
• Be active in your treatment: Work in close contact with a doctor to develop an individual treatment plan.
• Keep a headache diary: Helps to determine triggers and monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
• Look for support: Join the support group or talk with a friend or family member about your migraine.
• Take care of yourself: Select the time for classes that you like and which help you relax.
• Be patient: Migraine treatment requires time and effort. Do not give up if you do not see the results at once.
• Be attentive to your body: Find out your early signs of migraines and take measures to prevent or relieve headache.
• Plan in advance: If you have an important event planned, take measures to prevent migraine, for example, avoid triggers and take preventive medicines.
• Feel free to ask for help: If you need help, do not hesitate to ask your friends, family or colleagues about it.

Chapter 9: Myths and Facts about Migraine

There are many myths about migraine. It is important to know the facts in order to get the right treatment and support.

• Myth: Migraine is just a severe headache.
  • Fact: Migraine is a neurological disease characterized by intense headaches, often accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound.
• Myth: Migraine is a sign of weakness.
  • Fact: Migraine is a real disease that can significantly affect the quality of human life.
• Myth: Migraine is only female disease.
  • Fact: Migraine can occur in people of any gender and age.
• Myth: Migraine can be cured.
  • Fact: Migraine is not cured, but it can be controlled by drugs, changes in lifestyle and alternative treatment methods.
• Myth: All headaches are migraines.
  • Fact: There are many different types of headache. It is important to consult a doctor to make the correct diagnosis.
• Myth: Migraine medicines are always effective.
  • Fact: Migraine medicines are not always effective. It is important to find a medicine or a combination of drugs that are right for you.
• Myth: Migraine is just stress.
  • Fact: Stress can be a migraine trigger, but it is not the only reason.
• Myth: All foods cause migraine.
  • Fact: Some foods can cause migraine in susceptible people, but not everyone.
• Myth: Migraine is what you just need to live with.
  • Fact: There are effective methods for treating migraines. Consult a doctor to get help.

Chapter 10: The latest research in the field of migraine: Hope for the future

Migraine studies continue, and new treatment methods are being developed.

• New medications: New drugs are being developed that block CGRP and other substances involved in the development of migraines.
• Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS): It is investigated as a method for treating migraine.
• Gene therapy: It is studied as a potential method for treating migraine.
• The study of microbioma: The connection between intestinal microbioma and migraine is studied.
• Artificial intelligence (AI): Used to predict migraine attacks and develop individual treatment plans.

These studies inspire hope for the future treatment of migraine. As we learn more about the causes and mechanisms of migraine development, we will be able to develop more effective and targeted treatment methods.