Migraine: getting rid of pain and triggers forever

I. Understanding of migraines: much more than just a headache

Migraine is a complex neurological disease that affects millions of people around the world. This is not just a severe headache; This is a condition that can significantly affect the quality of life, limiting the ability to work, study and enjoy everyday classes. Understanding the intricacies of migraine, its various manifestations and basic mechanisms is the first step towards effective treatment and prevention.

A. Differentiation of migraines from other types of headache

It is important to distinguish migraines from other types of headaches, such as headache of tension or cluster headache. Migraine is usually characterized by the following features:

The intensity of pain: The pain is often described as pulsating, knocking or pressing, and can vary from moderate to strong.
Localization hurts: The pain is usually localized on one side of the head (one -sided), but it can be bilateral.
Related symptoms: Migraine is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, increased sensitivity to light (photophobia), sound (phonophobia) and smells (osmophobia).
The duration of the attack: A migraine attack without treatment can last from 4 to 72 hours.

The headache of tension, on the contrary, is usually felt like a dull, pressing or tightening pain, covering the whole head. It is less often accompanied by nausea or sensitivity to light and sound. The cluster headache is characterized by a very severe pain localized around one eye, with redness of the eye, lacrimation and nasal congestion on the affected side.

B. Varieties of migraines: with an aura and without aura

Migraine is divided into two main types: migraine with aura and migraine without aura.

Migraine without aura (ordinary migraine): This is the most common type of migraine, which is about 70-80% of all cases. The attack begins with a headache, which gradually increases.
Migraine with aura (classic migraine): Aura is a complex of neurological symptoms that occur before or during an attack of headache. Symptoms of aura usually develop gradually within a few minutes and last from 5 to 60 minutes. The most common aura symptoms include:
- Visual disorders: The appearance of flickering lights, zigzag lines, the loss of vision fields (scotomas), temporary loss of vision.
- Sensory disorders: Numbness or tingling in hands, legs or face.
- Speech disorders: Difficulty in the selection of words, slurred speech.
- Motor disorders: Weakness in one side of the body (hemiplegic migraine is a rare type).

It is important to note that not all people with migraines with aura experience it every time. Sometimes an aura can occur without subsequent headache.

C. Physiology of migraines: comprehensive interconnection of factors

The mechanisms underlying migraines are not fully studied, but it is believed that they include the complex interaction of genetic, neurological and vascular factors. Key factors involved in the development of migraines:

Genetic predisposition: Migraine has a pronounced hereditary component. If one or both parents have migraines, the probability of its development in a child increases significantly. Certain genes associated with migraine were identified, but they do not explain all cases of the disease.
Trigeminal nervous system: This system, which includes the trigeminal nerve, playing a key role in the transmission of pain signals from the head and face to the brain, is considered central in the pathophysiology of migraine. Activation of the trigeminal nerve leads to the release of neuropeptides, such as calcitonin General peptide (CGRP), which cause inflammation and expansion of blood vessels in the brain.
Vasoactive substances: Changes in the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin, histamine and nitrogen oxide, can play a role in the development of migraines. Serotonin, for example, regulates mood, sleep and appetite, and its level decreases during a migraine attack.
Inflammation: Inflammation in the membranes of the brain (mening) and blood vessels is considered an important factor that contributes to migraine pain. Inflammatory mediators released in response to the activation of the trigeminal nerve can sensitize pain receptors and increase pain.
Crimely spreading depression (CSD): This is a wave of electrical activity, which slowly spreads through the cerebral cortex. It is believed that CSD can cause an aura and activate the trigeminal nervous system.
Brain trunk dysfunction: The brain trunk contains areas that regulate pain, sleep and other functions. It is believed that dysfunction in these areas can play a role in the development of migraine.

Understanding these mechanisms allows you to develop more effective methods of treatment and prevention of migraine.

II. Identification of migraine triggers: a personalized approach to prevention

Migraine triggers are factors that can provoke an attack of susceptible people. The identification and avoidance of triggers is an important part of migraine management. However, it is important to understand that migraines triggers are individual and may differ in different people. Moreover, the effect of the trigger may depend on other factors, such as stress, hormonal background and general health.

A. common food triggers:

Certain products and drinks are often associated with migraine. Keeping a food diary can help determine which products are triggers for a particular person.

Sustained cheeses: They contain thyramin, an amino acid that can cause narrowing and expansion of blood vessels, which can provoke migraines.
Processed meat: Contains nitrates and nitrites used as preservatives, which can also affect blood vessels.
Chocolate: Contains caffeine and phenylethylamine, which can be triggers for some people.
Alcohol: Especially red wine contains thyramin and other compounds that can cause migraine.
Artificial sweeteners: Aspartems and other artificial sweeteners can cause migraine in some people.
Glutamate sodium (MSG): MSG is an amplifier of taste, which is often used in Chinese cuisine and processed products.
Citrus fruit: They contain an octamine, an amine that can affect the blood vessels.
Caffeine: Although caffeine can alleviate the headache in some people, its excess or a sharp cessation of consumption can provoke migraines.
Enzymed or pickled products: Contain Tiramin and other amines.

B. Ecological triggers:

The environment can also play a role in the development of migraines.

Weather changes: Changes in atmospheric pressure, temperature, humidity and wind can provoke migraines.
Bright light: Sunlight, fluorescent lighting, shimmering screens can cause migraine.
Strong smells: Spirits, chemicals, smoke, some foods can be triggers.
Noise: Loud sounds, constant noise can provoke an attack.
Height: Atmospheric pressure changes at high altitudes can cause migraine.

C. Life lifestyle factors:

The lifestyle has a significant impact on the frequency and intensity of migraines.

Stress: Stress is one of the most common migraine triggers.
Lack of sleep or excess sleep: Violation of sleep mode can provoke migraines.
Missed meals: Hunger can lead to a drop in blood sugar, which can cause migraine.
Dehydration: The lack of fluid can provoke a headache.
Intensive physical activity: Although regular moderate exercises are good for health, excessive loads can cause migraine.
Smoking: Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarette smoke can affect blood vessels and cause migraine.

D. Hormonal changes:

Hormonal vibrations, especially in women, are often associated with migraine.

Menstruation: A decrease in estrogen levels before menstruation can provoke migraines. This is often called “menstrual migraine.”
Pregnancy: In some women, migraine improves during pregnancy, while others, on the contrary, worsen.
Menopause: Hormonal changes during menopause can lead to an increase in migraine.
Hormonal contraceptives: Some hormonal contraceptives can aggravate migraines.

E. maintaining a headache diary: the key to individualization of prevention

Keeping a headache diary is an important tool for identifying migraine triggers and tracking treatment effectiveness. The following data should be noted in the diary:

The date and time of the beginning and end of the headache.
The intensity of pain (for example, on a scale from 1 to 10).
Localization hurts.
Concomitant symptoms (nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, sound and smells).
Possible triggers (food, drinks, weather changes, stress, lack of sleep, etc.).
Medicines taken to relieve headache, and their effectiveness.
Other factors that can be associated with a headache (for example, menstrual cycle).

Analysis of the diary data will identify individual triggers and develop a personalized prophylaxis strategy.

III. Migraine treatment: from stopping an attack to preventive therapy

Migraine treatment is aimed at alleviating the symptoms during an attack and preventing future attacks. There are two main types of treatment: buying treatment and preventive treatment.

A. Buying treatment: relief of symptoms during an attack

Buying treatment is aimed at relieving pain and other symptoms of migraine during an attack. It is most effective if you start taking it as early as possible, at the first signs of headache.

Nonsteroidal anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Ibuprofen, steady, diclofenac can be effective with mild and moderate migraine attacks. They act, blocking the production of prostaglandins, substances that cause inflammation and pain.
Acetaminophen (paracetamol): It can be effective for migrants of migraine, especially in combination with other drugs.
TRIPTA: Constantin, risatriciptan, zolmitriptan, intrigratyptan, frutitriptan, aliripritan and ethletriptan. These are specific drugs for the treatment of migraines that act, stimulating serotonin receptors in the brain. They help narrow blood vessels and reduce inflammation. Triptans are most effective if you accept them as early as possible at the first signs of headache. They can cause side effects, such as nausea, dizziness and a feeling of constraint in the chest. Triptans are contraindicated to people with cardiovascular diseases.
Ergotamines: Ergotamine and dihydroergotamine. These are older preparations for the treatment of migraines, which also act, narrowing blood vessels. They are less effective and have more side effects than triptans, therefore, they are used less often. Ergotamines are also contraindicated in people with cardiovascular diseases.
Antimetics: Metoclopramide, coolroperazin, domperidone. These are drugs that help reduce nausea and vomiting, often accompanying migraines. They can also improve the absorption of other drugs taken to relieve headaches.
Combined drugs: Some drugs contain a combination of analgesics (for example, acetaminophen or ibuprofen) and caffeine. Caffeine can enhance the effect of analgesic and relieve headache.

The choice of the drug to stop the migraine attack depends on the severity of the attack, the presence of concomitant diseases and individual tolerance of drugs. It is important to consult a doctor to choose the most suitable drug and determine the correct dosage. Excessive use of accumulating drugs can lead to the development of drug-induced headache (Rebound Headache).

B. Preventive treatment: Prevention of future seizures

Preventive treatment is aimed at reducing the frequency, severity and duration of migraine attacks. It is usually recommended for people in whom migraine occurs often (more than 4 days a month) or attacks greatly affect the quality of life.

Beta blockers: Propranolol, metoprolol, Atenolol. These drugs are often used to treat high blood pressure, but they can also be effective for migraine prevention. They act, blocking the effect of adrenaline and norepinephrine, which can reduce the activity of the nervous system and reduce the likelihood of migraine development.
Antidepressants: Amititriptylin, NORTRIPTILIN (tricyclic antidepressants) and Wenlafaxin (inhibitor of the reverse capture of serotonin and norepinephrine). These drugs can help reduce the frequency of migraines, affecting the chemicals in the brain that are involved in the development of pain.
Anticonvulsants: Topiramate, valproic acid, sodium sofa. These drugs are used to treat epilepsy, but they can also be effective for migraine prevention. They act, stabilizing electrical activity in the brain. It is important to take into account that valproic acid and sodium sofas are contraindicated during pregnancy, as they can cause serious development defects in the fetus.
Calcium channel blockers: Flunarizin. These drugs block the intake of calcium into cells, which can help reduce the excitability of nerve cells and prevent migraine.
Monoclonal antibodies to CGRP (calcitonin General-body peptide): Erenumab, Freanzumab, Galkanzumab, Eptynesumab. This is a new group of drugs for migraine prevention that act by blocking CGRP or its receptor. CGRP is a neuropeptide that plays a key role in migraine pathophysiology. These drugs are administered as injections once a month or a quarter. They are usually well tolerated, but can cause side effects, such as constipation, reactions at the injection site and rarely – an increase in blood pressure.
Botulinum toxin Type A (Botox): Botox is approved for the prevention of chronic migraines (headaches that occur 15 or more days a month, for 3 months or longer). It is introduced in the form of injections into the muscles of the head and neck. Botox acts, blocking the release of neurotransmitters that participate in the transmission of pain signals.
Magnesium: Magnesium deficiency can contribute to the development of migraine. Reception of magnesium additives can help reduce the frequency and severity of attacks.
Riboflavin (vitamin B2): Riboflavin is involved in energy metabolism in cells. Reception of high doses of riboflavin can help reduce the frequency of migraines.
Coenzim q10: Coenzyme Q10 is involved in energy exchange in mitochondria. Reception of Coenzyme additives Q10 can help reduce the frequency of migraines.
Parsley girlish (Tanacetum Parthenium): A plant that is traditionally used to treat headaches. It is believed that it has anti -inflammatory properties.

The choice of preventive treatment depends on the frequency and severity of migraines, the presence of concomitant diseases, side effects of drugs and patient preferences. It is important to discuss with the doctor possible treatment options and choose the most suitable approach. Preventive treatment usually requires several weeks or months to show your effect. It is important to continue taking drugs, even if the improvement is not noticeable immediately.

IV. Non -drug methods for treating migraines: Integrative approach

In addition to drugs, there are a number of non -drug methods that can help alleviate the symptoms of migraines and prevent future attacks. These methods can be used in combination with drugs or independently.

A. Changes in lifestyle:

Stress management: Stress is one of the most common migraine triggers. Stress management methods, such as meditation, yoga, tai-chi, breathing exercises and progressive muscle relaxation, can help reduce the frequency and severity of attacks.
Regular sleep: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Compliance with the regular sleep regime helps to stabilize circus rhythms and reduce the likelihood of migraine development.
Healthy nutrition: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole cereals can help reduce the frequency of migraines. Avoid missing meals and drink enough water during the day.
Regular physical exercises: Moderate physical exercises, such as walking, swimming or cycling, can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. It is important to avoid excessive loads that migraine can provoke.
Restriction of alcohol and caffeine consumption: These substances can be migraine triggers for some people.
Avoiding famous triggers: As soon as you determine your migraines triggers, try to avoid them.

B. Alternative treatment methods:

Acupuncture: A traditional Chinese medical equipment in which thin needles are inserted into certain points on the body. Acupuncture can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks, affecting the nervous system and releasing endorphins.
Massage: Massage can help relax muscles and reduce tension, which can relieve headache.
Biological feedback: A method that helps people learn to control certain physiological functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure and muscle tension. Biological feedback can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks, teaching people to relax and reduce stress.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT): The type of psychotherapy that helps people change negative thoughts and behavior that can contribute to the development of migraines. KPT can help people learn to cope with stress, improve sleep quality and adhere to a healthy lifestyle.
Neurostimulation: Non -invasive methods of brain stimulation, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and percutaneous stimulation of the vagus nerve (ChSBN), can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.

C. Physiotherapy:

Physiotherapy can be useful for people with migraine, especially if headaches are associated with tension of the muscles of the neck and shoulders. The physiotherapist can teach exercises to strengthen and stretch the muscles of the neck and shoulders, as well as relaxation techniques.

D. Home remedies:

Dark room: During a migraine attack, it can be useful to lie down in a dark, quiet room.
Cold compress: The appendix of the cold compress to the forehead or temples can help reduce pain.
Hot compress: The application of hot compress to the neck or shoulders can help relax muscles and relieve headache.
Ginger: Ginger has anti -inflammatory properties and can help reduce nausea, often accompanying migraine.
Peppermint: Peppermint oil can be applied to whiskey to relieve headaches.

It is important to note that the effectiveness of non -drug methods for treating migraine can vary in different people. It is important to try different methods and find those that work best for you. Before starting any new treatment, you need to consult a doctor.

V. Migraines and related diseases: an integrated approach to treatment

Migraine often coexists with other diseases that can affect the course of migraine and treatment effectiveness. It is important to consider the presence of concomitant diseases when developing a treatment plan for migraine.

A. Depression and anxiety:

Depression and anxiety are often found in people with migraine. These conditions can worsen the course of migraines and reduce treatment effectiveness. Treatment of depression and anxiety can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Treatment options include antidepressants, psychotherapy (for example, cognitive-behavioral therapy) and stress management methods.

B. Cardiovascular diseases:

People with migraine, especially migraine with an aura, have an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, such as myocardial stroke and infarction. It is important to control the risk factors of cardiovascular diseases, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking. Some drugs used to treat migraines, such as triptans and ergotamins, can be contraindicated for people with cardiovascular diseases.

C. Epilepsia:

Migraine and epilepsy have some common mechanisms and can occur together. Some drugs used to treat epilepsy, such as topiramate and valproic acid, can also be effective for migraine prevention.

D. irritable intestines (SRK):

SRK is often found in people with migraine. Treatment of SRK can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.

E. Sleep disorders:

Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia and sleep apnea, can worsen the course of migraine. Treatment of sleep disorders can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.

F. Other diseases:

Migraine can also be associated with other diseases, such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, temporomandibular joint (TMS) and cervical spondylosis. Treatment of these diseases can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.

VI. Migraine in women: special considerations

Migraine is more common in women than in men. Hormonal changes associated with the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause can play a role in the development of migraine in women.

A. menstrual migraine:

Menstrual migraine is a type of migraine that occurs in connection with the menstrual cycle, usually 2 days before the start of menstruation or during the first 3 days of menstruation. A decrease in estrogen levels before menstruation can be a menstrual migraine trigger. Treatment of menstrual migraine may include stopping drugs such as NSAIDs or triptans, as well as preventive treatment, such as taking magnesium additives or continuous taking hormonal contraceptives.

B. Migraine and pregnancy:

In some women, migraine improves during pregnancy, while others, on the contrary, worsen. It is important to discuss with a doctor options for treating migraines during pregnancy, as some drugs can be unsafe for the fetus. Safe treatment options during pregnancy include acetaminophen, magnesium and non -drug methods, such as relaxation and acupuncture.

C. Migraine and menopause:

Hormonal changes during menopause can lead to an increase in migraine. Hormonal replacement therapy can help reduce the frequency of migraines in some women during menopause. It is important to discuss the risks and advantages of hormonal replacement therapy with the doctor.

VII. Migraine in children and adolescents: unique problems

Migraine can occur in children and adolescents. Symptoms of migraines in children may differ from symptoms in adults. For example, in children there is often a bilateral headache and abdominal symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting.

A. Diagnostics of migraine in children:

Diagnosis of migraine in children can be complicated, as children may experience difficulties in describing their symptoms. It is important to carefully assemble an anamnesis and conduct a physical examination.

B. Treatment of migraines in children:

Migraine treatment in children may include stopping drugs such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as well as preventive treatment, such as a change in lifestyle, stress management and taking magnesium additives. It is important to avoid excessive use of drugs for headaches, as this can lead to a drug-induced headache.

C. Migraine prevention in children:

Migraine prevention in children includes the identification and avoidance of triggers, compliance with regular sleep mode, healthy nutrition, sufficient hydration and regular physical exercises. It is important to teach children stress methods such as relaxation and meditation.

VIII. Life with migraine: adaptation and support strategies

Life with migraine can be complicated, but there are a number of strategies that can help people adapt and improve the quality of life.

A. Development of an action plan:

Develop an action plan that includes strategies to stop migraine attacks, preventive measures and information on how to get medical care, if necessary.

B. Support:

Support for your family, friends, colleagues and other people with migraine. There are online and offline support groups where you can share experience, get advice and support.

C. Self -Aviation:

Learn to communicate effectively with your doctor and other medical workers. Learn more about migraine and affordable treatment options. Do not be afraid to ask questions and express your fears.

D. Adaptation to restrictions:

Accept the fact that migraine can limit your ability to perform certain tasks. Find the ways to adapt to these restrictions. For example, you can delegate tasks to other people, reduce working hours or use Assistive Technology.

E. Caring for yourself:

Remember the importance of self -care. Select the time for classes that you like and help to relax. Take care of your physical and mental health.

IX. New directions in the treatment of migraines: innovation and hopes

Research in the field of migraine is constantly developing, and new methods of treatment and prevention appear.

A. New drugs:

New drugs are being developed for the treatment and prevention of migraine, including drugs that affect other targets in the brain, such as glutamate receptors and ion channels.

B. New methods of neurostimulations:

New methods of neurostimulations are developed, such as transcranial direct stimulation (CCPS) and stimulation of the trigeminal nerve, which can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.

C. Personalized medicine:

Methods of personalized medicine are developed, which allow us to adapt the treatment of migraine to the individual needs of each patient based on his genetic, biological and clinical characteristics.

D. Digital Health:

Digital tools are developed, such as mobile applications and wearable devices that can help people track their headaches, identify triggers and manage their condition.

X. Myths and misconceptions about migraine: debunking false representations

There are many myths and misconceptions about migraines that can impede the effective treatment and management of this disease.

A. Migraine is just a headache:

Migraine is a complex neurological disease that includes not only headache, but also other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, sound and smells.

B. Migraine is a sign of weakness:

Migraine is a real disease that has a biological basis. This is not a sign of weakness or lack of willpower.

C. Migraine is only a female disease:

Migraine is more common in women than in men, but it can occur in people of any gender and age.

D. Migraine cannot be cured:

Migraine can be effectively treated and controlled. There are drugs and non -drug methods that can help alleviate the symptoms and prevent future attacks.

E. All headaches are the same:

There are different types of headaches, and it is important to distinguish between migraines from other types, such as headache of tension and cluster headache.

F. Migraines triggers are the same for everyone:

Migraines triggers are individual and can differ in different people. It is important to identify your own triggers and avoid them.

G. Migraine medicines cause addiction:

Triptans and other specific drugs for the treatment of migraine do not cause addiction. However, excessive use of analgesics can lead to drug-induced headache.

H. Alternative methods for treating migraines do not work:

Some alternative methods of treatment, such as acupuncture, biological feedback and cognitive-behavioral therapy, can be effective for the treatment and prevention of migraine.

I. Migraine is a psychosomatic disease:

Migraine has a biological basis, but stress and other psychological factors can affect the frequency and severity of seizures.

Delassing these myths and errors, we can help people with migraine get adequate medical care and improve the quality of their lives.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of migraines, encompassing various aspects from understanding the underlying mechanisms to exploring different treatment options and lifestyle adjustments. It’s designed to be a valuable resource for individuals seeking to effectively manage their migraines and improve their overall well-being. The structure is logical and detailed, covering a wide range of topics relevant to migraine management.

Migraine: getting rid of pain and triggers forever

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