Migraine: A complete victory over pain is possible!

Migraine: A complete victory over pain is possible!

Section 1: Understanding Migraines: more than just a headache

1. 1 Definition and classification: Detection of ordinary headaches and migraines.
   Migraine is not just a severe headache. This is a complex neurological disease characterized by intense pulsating pains, usually on one side of the head. Migraine is often accompanied by additional symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light (photophobia), sound (phonophobia) and smells (osmophobia). Unlike the usual headache, which can be caused by stress or stress and usually passes through painkillers, migraine can significantly disrupt everyday life and demand specialized treatment.

   It is important to understand that there are several types of migraines, each of which has its own characteristics:

   • Migraine without aura (ordinary migraine): The most common type, characterized by pulsating pain, is usually on one side of the head, accompanied by nausea, vomiting and/or light and sound sensitivity.
   • Migraine with aura: Migraine, which is preceded or accompanied by neurological symptoms called aura. The aura may include visual disturbances (flickering lights, zigzag lines, visual fields), sensory disorders (numbness, tingling) or speech disorders.
   • Chronic migraine: Headaches that occur 15 or more days a month for at least three months, and at least 8 days a month correspond to migraine criteria.
   • Hemiplegic migraine: A rare type of migraine, characterized by weakness or paralysis (hemiplegia) of one side of the body that occurs during the aura.
   • Ophthalmoplegic migraine: A rare type of migraine, accompanied by paralysis of the muscles that control the movement of the eyes.
   • Vestibular migraine: Migraine, characterized by episodes of dizziness and a violation of equilibrium.

   The distinction between these types of migraine is crucial for making the correct diagnosis and developing an effective treatment plan.

2. 2 Physiology of migraines: what happens in the brain during an attack.
   The mechanisms underlying migraines are complex and not fully studied. However, it is believed that the following factors play a key role:

   • Trigeminal-vascular system: This system includes the trigeminal nerve, which is the main nerve that provides the sensitivity of the face and head, and the blood vessels surrounding the brain. During a migraine attack, the trigeminal nerve is activated, which leads to the release of neuropeptides, such as calcitonin-hen-tied peptide (CGRP). CGRP causes the expansion of blood vessels in the brain, which, in turn, causes inflammation and pain.
   • Cortical spreading depression (CSD): This is a wave of electrical activity, which spreads through the cerebral cortex. CSD can be the cause of the aura for migraine with an aura and can activate the trigeminal-vascular system.
   • Neurotransmitter: Various neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine and glutamate, play a role in the development of migraines. Changes in the levels of these neurotransmitters can affect the migraine threshold and contribute to attacks.
   • Genetic predisposition: Migraine has a genetic component. People who have relatives suffering from migraine have a higher risk of developing this disease. Several genes associated with migraine were identified, but migraine genetics remains a complex field of research.

   Understanding these physiological processes allows you to develop medicines that affect specific mechanisms involved in the development of migraines.

3. 3 Migraine triggers: identification and avoidance of provoking factors.
   Migraine triggers are factors that can provoke a migraine attack of predisposed people. Triggers vary from man to person, and it is important to identify their own triggers so that they can avoid or minimize their impact. General migraines triggers include:

   • Food products and drinks: Some products and drinks such as aged cheeses, treated meat, chocolate, citrus fruits, alcohol (especially red wine) and products containing artificial sweeteners can cause migraine.
   • Passing of food intake: Passing for food intake or starvation can lead to a drop in blood sugar, which can provoke migraines.
   • Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake can cause headaches, including migraine.
   • Stress: Both physical and emotional stress are common migraine triggers.
   • Changes in sleep mode: Lack of sleep, too much sleep or changes in sleep graphs can provoke migraines.
   • Hormonal changes: In women, migraine is often associated with hormonal changes, such as menstruation, pregnancy and menopause.
   • Weather changes: Changes in atmospheric pressure, temperature and humidity can cause migraine.
   • Sensory incentives: Bright light, loud sounds, strong smells and flashing lights can provoke migraines.
   • Physical activity: Intensive physical exercises can cause migraine in some people.
   • Medicines: Some drugs, such as oral contraceptives and vasodilators, can provoke migraines.

   Making a headache diary can help identify migraine triggers. Write down the date, time, intensity, duration of headache, as well as any potential triggers that could precede it. This will help you determine patterns and avoid factors that cause your migraines.

Section 2: Migraine Diagnostics: Appeal to a specialist and the necessary examinations

2. 1 When to see a doctor: symptoms that require attention.
   Not all headaches require a doctor. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor to exclude other causes of a headache and get a correct diagnosis:

   • Strong headaches: The headaches that interfere with your daily life and do not pass with the help of over -the -counter painkillers.
   • Headaches accompanied by neurological symptoms: Aura, weakness, numbness, speech impairment, vision problems or dizziness.
   • Sudden, severe headache: A headache that occurs suddenly and reaches maximum intensity within a few minutes (the so -called “thunder -like headache”).
   • Headache, accompanied by fever, stiffness of the neck, rash, confusion of consciousness, convulsions, doubles in the eyes, weakness, numbness or speech disorders.
   • Headaches that worsen over time or change their characteristics.
   • Headaches that occur after head injury.
   • Headaches that do not respond to treatment.
   • Chronic headaches (15 or more days a month).

   It is important to remember that self -diagnosis and self -medication can be dangerous. Only a qualified doctor can make the correct diagnosis and prescribe suitable treatment.

3. 2 The collection of an anamnesis and a physical examination: what to expect at a doctor’s appointment.
   At the first appeal to the doctor about headaches, you will be asked many questions about the history of your headaches, about your general health and about family history. The doctor may ask you about the following:

   • Characteristics of the headache: Localization, intensity, type (pulsating, pressing, dull), duration, frequency.
   • Related symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, light and sound sensitivity, aura.
   • Headache triggers: Food products, drinks, stress, changes in sleep mode, hormonal changes, weather changes, sensory stimuli.
   • The medicines that you take: Right -making and prescription drugs.
   • Family history of headaches: Do your relatives have migraines or other types of headaches.
   • Medical history: Any other medical diseases that you suffer.

   The doctor will also conduct a physical examination, which may include measurement of blood pressure, assessment of the function of the cranial nerves, verification of reflexes and coordination assessment.

4. 3 Instrumental diagnostic methods: MRI, CT, electroencephalography (EEG).
   In most cases, the diagnosis of migraine is made on the basis of an anamnesis and physical examination. However, in some cases, the doctor may prescribe additional studies to exclude other causes of headache or evaluate the presence of complications. Such studies include:

   • Magnetic resonance tomography (MRI) of the brain: MRI allows you to obtain detailed images of the brain and identify structural anomalies, such as tumors, aneurysms or malformations of blood vessels. MRI is usually prescribed for suspected secondary headache (headache caused by another disease).
   • Computed tomography (CT) of the brain: CT uses x -rays to obtain images of the brain. CT can be made faster than an MRI, and can be used in emergency cases, for example, if the brain is suspected.
   • ElectroenceianChalograph (GCH): EEG measures the electrical activity of the brain. EEG can be useful in the diagnosis of epilepsy or other diseases affecting the function of the brain. EEG is not a routine study in migraine, but can be prescribed in some cases, especially if the patient has cramps or changes in consciousness.
   • Lumbal puncture (spinal puncture): This procedure includes extracting a small amount of spinal fluid from the spinal canal. Lumbal puncture can be performed in case of suspicion of infection of the brain or spinal cord (meningitis) or hemorrhage in the subarachnoid space.

   It is important to discuss with the doctor the need to conduct any additional studies, as well as the risks and advantages of these studies.

Section 3: Migraine Treatment: An integrated approach to pain relief

3. 1 Drug treatment: drugs for stopping and prevention of seizures.
   Migraine treatment includes two main approaches: stopping attacks and prevention of seizures.

   • Relocation of seizures (acute treatment): These drugs are designed to relieve pain and other symptoms during migraine attacks. They are most effective if they are taken at an early stage of an attack.

     • Right -up painkillers: Acetaminophen (paracetamol), ibuprofen, steady. They can be effective for mild and moderate headaches. However, excessive use of these drugs can lead to headaches caused by excessive drugs.
     • TRIPTA: Constantin, risatriciptan, zolmitriptan, intrigripan, ethletriptan, frutitrippan, albripritan. These are specific drugs for the treatment of migraines that affect serotonin receptors in the brain. Triptans narrow the blood vessels and reduce inflammation. They are contraindicated in people with cardiovascular diseases or stroke.
     • Dihydroergotamin (DGE): DGE is another medicine that narrows blood vessels. It can be introduced intravenously, intramuscularly or intranasally. DGE is also contraindicated in people with cardiovascular diseases or stroke.
     • Antimetics: Metoclopramide, coolroperazin, ondansetron. These drugs are used to facilitate nausea and vomiting, which often accompany migraine.
     • NSAIDs in combination with other drugs: Some drugs contain a combination of NSAIDs such as Ibuprofen, with other drugs such as caffeine or codeine.

   • Preventive treatment: These drugs are designed to reduce the frequency, intensity and duration of migraine attacks. Preventive treatment is recommended for people in whom migraine occurs often (more than 4 days a month) or if attacks significantly violate their everyday life.

     • Beta blockers: Propranolol, metoprolol, Atenolol. These drugs are used to treat high blood pressure, but can also be effective for migraine prevention.
     • Antidepressants: Amititriptylin, NORTRIPTILIN, WENLAFAXIN. These drugs can help reduce the migraine frequency by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain.
     • Anticonvulsants: Topiramate, valproic acid, size. These drugs are used to treat epilepsy, but can also be effective for migraine prevention.
     • Calcium channel blockers: Flunarizin. These drugs block the intake of calcium in the cells, which can help reduce the migraine frequency.
     • Botulotoxin injections (Botox): Botox can be effective for the prevention of chronic migraine (15 or more head pain per month). Botox injections are introduced into the muscles of the head and neck.
     • Monoclonal antibodies to CGRP or its receptor: Erenumab, Freanzumab, Galkanzumab, Eptynesumab. These drugs block the effect of CGRP, neuropeptide, which plays an important role in the development of migraine. They are introduced in the form of monthly or quarterly injections.

   The choice of medicine for the treatment of migraine depends on various factors, such as the type of migraine, the frequency and severity of attacks, the presence of other diseases and the preferences of the patient. It is important to discuss with your doctor all possible treatment options and the risks and advantages of each of them.

4. 2 Non -drug treatment methods: alternative approaches to pain management.
   In addition to drug treatment, there are a number of non -drug methods that can help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine.

   • Life change change:

     • Avoiding triggers: The determination and avoidance of migraine triggers can help reduce the frequency of attacks.
     • Regular sleep mode: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
     • Healthy nutrition: Adhere to a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Avoid missing meals and dehydration.
     • Regular physical exercises: Regular physical exercises, such as walking, swimming or cycling, can help reduce the migraine frequency. However, avoid intensive exercises that migraine can provoke.
     • Stress management: Learn stress control techniques such as meditation, yoga or deep breath.

   • Biological feedback (BOS): Bos is a method that helps people learn to control their physiological functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure and muscle tension. Bos can be effective for reducing the frequency and intensity of migraine.

   • Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine, which includes the introduction of thin needles into certain points on the body. Acupuncture can be effective for reducing migraine frequency.

   • Massage: Massage can help relax muscles and reduce tension, which can help reduce the frequency of migraine.

   • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT): KPT is a type of psychotherapy that helps people change their thoughts and behavior. KPT can be effective for managing stress and anxiety, which can be migraine triggers.

   • Supplements: Some additives can be effective for migraine prevention. These include:

     • Magnesium: Magnesium can help relax muscles and reduce inflammation.
     • Riboflavin (vitamin B2): Riboflavin can help improve the function of mitochondria, which are energy centers of cells.
     • Coenzim q10: Coenzyme Q10 can also help improve the function of mitochondria.
     • Melatonin: Melatonin is a hormone that regulates the cycle of sleep and wakefulness. Melatonin can help improve sleep quality and reduce the migraine frequency.
     • Rooster: A rooster is a grass that can help reduce inflammation and pain.

   It is important to talk with your doctor before starting to take any additives in order to make sure that they are safe for you and do not interact with any medicines that you take.

5. 3 Innovative treatment methods: stimulation of the vagus nerve (VNS), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).
   In recent years, new migraine treatment methods have been developed that use nerves stimulation to reduce pain.

   • Stimulation of the vagus nerve (VNS): VNS includes stimulating the vagus nerve, which is the main nerve that goes from the brain to the organs of the abdominal cavity. VNS can be made using a non -invasive device that is applied to the neck. Studies have shown that VNS can be effective for stopping migraine attacks and migraine prevention.

   • Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS): TMS uses magnetic impulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. TMS can be effective for stopping migraine attacks with aura.

   • Remote electrical neuromodulation (REN): Ren includes stimulation of the upper limbs using a device that transmits electrical impulses. Ren can be effective for stopping migraine attacks.

   These innovative methods for treating migraines can be useful for people who do not respond to traditional treatment. However, it is important to discuss with your doctor the risks and advantages of these treatment methods.

Section 4: Life with migraine: tips and strategies to improve the quality of life

4. 1 Creating a supportive environment: communication with family, friends and colleagues.
   Migraine can have a significant impact on the quality of life. It is important to create a supporting environment to cope with this disease.

   • Communication with family and friends: Explain to your family and friends what migraines are and how it affects you. Ask them about support and understanding.
   • Communication with colleagues: Tell your employer and colleagues about your migraine. Discuss possible options for adaptation at the workplace, such as the ability to work from home or take breaks in a quiet place.
   • Entry into support groups: Join the support groups for people with migraine. Communication with other people who understand that you are worried can be very useful.

5. 2 Stress and anxiety management: relaxation and meditation techniques.
   Stress and anxiety are common migraine triggers. It is important to learn stress management techniques to reduce the frequency of seizures.

   • Relaxation techniques: Try relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation and visualization.
   • Meditation: Meditation can help calm the mind and reduce stress.
   • Yoga: Yoga combines physical exercises, breathing techniques and meditation.
   • Tai-you: Tai-chi is a form of Chinese gymnastics, which includes slow, smooth movements.
   • Art Therapy: Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses creativity to express feelings and emotions.

6. 3 Planning and organization: keeping a headache diary and development of an action plan.
   Planning and organization can help you better cope with migraine.

   • Keeping a headache diary: Write down the date, time, intensity, duration of headache, as well as any potential triggers that could precede it. This will help you determine patterns and avoid factors that cause your migraines.
   • Development of an action plan: Develop an action plan in case of an attack of migraine. This plan should include the medicines that you will take, strategies to relieve pain and contact details of your doctor.
   • Planning of your activities: Plan your activities in advance to avoid stressful situations and migraine triggers.
   • Organization of your workplace: Organize your workplace in such a way that it is convenient and does not cause stress.

7. 4 Search for professional assistance: psychotherapy and consultations.
   If you experience difficulties in managing migraine, do not hesitate to seek professional help.

   • Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy can help you learn the techniques of managing stress, anxiety and depression, which can be associated with migraine.
   • Consultations: The consultant can help you develop a plan for the treatment of migraines and learn strategies to improve the quality of life.

Section 5: Myths and reality about migraines: debunge errors

5. 1 Myth: Migraine is just a severe headache. Reality: Migraine is a complex neurological disease.
   Migraine is much more than just a severe headache. This is a complex neurological disease characterized by intense pulsating pains, usually on one side of the head. Migraine is often accompanied by additional symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, sound and smells. Migraine can significantly violate everyday life and require specialized treatment.

6. 2 Myth: Migraine is a female disease. Reality: Migraine is found in men and women, although women suffer from it more often.
   Migraine is found in both sexes, but women suffer from it more often than men. This is due to hormonal changes that occur in women during menstruation, pregnancy and menopause.

7. 3 Myth: Migraine cannot be cured. Reality: Migraine can be effectively monitored using drug and non -medical treatment.
   Although migraine cannot be completely cured, it can be effectively controlled with drug and non -drug treatment. There are medicines for stopping migraine attacks and for the prevention of seizures. Non -drug methods of treatment, such as a change in lifestyle, biological feedback, acupuncture and massage, can also be effective for reducing the frequency and intensity of migraine.

8. 4 Myth: Migraine is a sign of weakness. Reality: Migraine is a real disease that has nothing to do with a weakness of character.
   Migraine is a real disease that has nothing to do with a weakness of character. This is a neurological disease that is caused by changes in the brain. Do not be ashamed or hide your migraine. Seek the doctor for help and develop a treatment plan.

9. 5 Myth: Migraine is caused only by stress. Reality: Stress is only one of many migraine triggers.
   Stress is a common migraine trigger, but this is not the only trigger. Other migraines triggers include food products and drinks, passing food, dehydration, changes in sleep mode, hormonal changes, weather changes and sensory stimuli. It is important to identify your own migraines triggers so that they can avoid or minimize their effects.

Section 6: Scientific research and prospects for the treatment of migraines

6. 1 The latest developments in the field of migraine study: genetics, neuroizualization.
   Scientific research in the field of migraine continues to develop, bringing new knowledge about the mechanisms of development of the disease and revealing new prospects for treatment.

   • Genetics of migraines: Studies in the field of migraine genetics revealed several genes associated with an increased risk of migraine development. These genes are involved in various processes, such as regulation of the activity of nerve cells, transmission of signals in the brain and inflammation. Further studies in this area can lead to the development of new treatment methods aimed at specific genetic factors that contribute to the development of migraines.
   • Neurovalization migraines: Neuroimaging methods, such as MRI and PET, allow scientists to study the structure and function of the brain in people suffering from migraine. These studies revealed changes in various areas of the brain involved in the processing of pain, emotions and sensory information. These changes can contribute to the development of migraine attacks.

7. 2 Clinical trials of new drugs: prospects and expectations.
   Currently, many clinical testing of new drugs for the treatment and prevention of migraine are being carried out. Some of the most promising areas include:

   • CGRP antagonists: Monoclonal antibodies to CGRP or its receptor (Erenumab, Freanzumab, Galkanzumab, Eptynesumab) showed high efficiency in migraine prevention. Studies on the development of new CGRP antagonists with improved characteristics are ongoing.
   • Hever: Hyans are a new class of drugs that block the CGRP receptor. Unlike triptans, heaps do not narrow the blood vessels, so they can be safe for people with cardiovascular diseases. Some heaps are already approved for the treatment of acute migraine attacks, and research continues to use them in migraine prevention.
   • Ditan: Ditan is a selective agonist of a 5-HT1F serotonin receptor. It can be effective for the treatment of acute migraine attacks and does not cause narrowing of blood vessels.

8. 3 An integrative approach to the treatment of migraines: a combination of traditional medicine and alternative methods.
   The integrative approach to the treatment of migraines involves a combination of traditional medicine (medicine, physiotherapy) and alternative methods (lifestyle changes, biological feedback, acupuncture, massage, additives). This approach takes into account the individual needs of each patient and is aimed at achieving optimal control over migraine.

   • Nutrition and migraine: Studies show that certain diets and food additives can be useful to reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine. For example, a low content of tyrammine and phenylethylamine can help some people suffering from migraine.
   • Physical activity and migraine: Regular physical exercises, such as walking, swimming or cycling, can help reduce the migraine frequency. However, it is important to avoid intense exercises that migraine can provoke.
   • Psychological methods and migraines: Stress management methods, such as meditation, yoga and cognitive-behavioral therapy, can help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines.

Section 7: Migraine in children and adolescents: features and approaches to treatment

7. 1 Symptoms of migraines in children: differences from adults.
   Migraine in children and adolescents can manifest itself in a slightly different way than in adults. Some features include:

   • The shorter duration of the headache: In children, headaches in migraines often last less than in adults. They can last only 1-2 hours.
   • Bilateral headache: Unlike adults, children have a headache for migraine more often two -way.
   • Stomach ache: In children’s abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting can be more pronounced than headache.
   • Irritability and fatigue: Children with migraine can be more irritable and tired than usual.
   • Cyclic gag syndrome: This condition is characterized by repeating episodes of strong nausea and vomiting, which can be associated with migraine.
   • Abdominal migraine syndrome: This condition is characterized by repeating episodes of abdominal pain, which can be associated with migraine.

8. 2 Diagnosis of migraine in children: criteria and features.
   Diagnosis of migraine in children can be difficult, since children often cannot accurately describe their symptoms. Doctors usually use the modified criteria for the international headaches society to diagnose migraine in children.

   The main criteria include:

   • The presence of at least 5 attacks of headaches corresponding to certain criteria.
   • The headache lasts from 1 to 72 hours (without treatment).
   • The headache has at least two of the following characteristics:
     • One -sided localization (can be bilateral in children).
     • Pulsating in nature.
     • Moderate or strong intensity.
     • Deterioration in ordinary physical activity (for example, walking, climbing stairs).
   • During the headache, there is one of the following symptoms:
     • Nausea and/or vomiting.
     • Light and sound sensitivity.

   It is important to exclude other causes of headaches in children, such as infections, head injuries or brain tumors.

9. 3 Treatment of migraines in children: medication and non -drug approaches.
   Migraine treatment in children includes medication and non -drug approaches.

   • Non -drug treatment methods:

     • Life change change: Ensuring regular sleep mode, healthy diet and sufficient fluid consumption.
     • Avoiding triggers: Determination and avoidance of migraine triggers, such as food products, stress and lack of sleep.
     • Relaxation techniques: Teaching children with relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation and visualization.
     • ** Biological feedback