How to get rid of migraines forever: effective strategies
I. Understanding migraines: the key to effective treatment
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What is migraine?
Migraine is a neurological disease characterized by intense headaches, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting and increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) and sound (phonophobia). Unlike ordinary headache, migraine can significantly limit daily activities and worsen the quality of life.
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Migraine types:
- Migraine with aura: About 20-30% of people with migraine experience an aura that is a number of neurological symptoms preceding a headache. The aura may include visual disorders (flickering lights, zigzag lines, blind spots), sensory disorders (numbness, tingling), speech problems and motor disorders.
- Migraine without aura: This is the most common type of migraine in which headache occurs without previous neurological symptoms.
- Chronic migraine: It is diagnosed if headaches occur 15 or more days a month for at least three months, and at least 8 of these days correspond to migraine criteria.
- Migraine status: A long attack of migraines, lasting more than 72 hours. Requires immediate medical care.
- Retinal migraine: A rare type of migraine, characterized by a temporary loss of vision in one eye, accompanied by a headache.
- Hemiplegic migraine: A rare type of migraine, causing weakness of one side of the body, accompanied by a headache. It can be hereditary or sporadic.
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Causes of migraine: multifactorial character
The exact cause of the migraine has not been fully studied, but it is believed that it is the result of a complex interaction of genetic factors, environmental factors and changes in the brain. Key factors involved in the development of migraines include:
- Genetic predisposition: The presence of relatives suffering from migraine significantly increases the risk of developing this disease.
- Changes in the brain: Studies have shown that people with migraine may observe changes in the structure and function of the brain, especially in areas responsible for the processing of pain and sensory information.
- Neurotransmitter: Changes in the level of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and calcitonin-gen-tied peptide (CGRP), play an important role in the development of migraines.
- Inflammation: Inflammatory processes in the brain and blood vessels can contribute to the development of migraines.
- Triggers: Certain factors can launch migraine attacks in people predisposed to this disease.
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Migraine triggers: individual approach
Migraine triggers are factors that can provoke an attack of headache. It is important to note that triggers are individual for each person suffering from migraine. Keeping a headache diary can help identify your personal triggers. The common migraines triggers include:
- Food products:
- Sustained cheeses
- Chocolate
- Alcohol (especially red wine)
- Processed meat
- Sodium glutamate (MSG)
- Artificial sweeteners
- Citrus fruit
- Changes in sleep mode: Lack of sleep, excess sleep or violation of sleep mode can provoke migraines.
- Stress: Physical and emotional stress are common migraine triggers.
- Hormonal changes: In women, migraine is often associated with a menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause.
- Environmental factors:
- Bright light
- Loud sounds
- Strong smells
- Weather changes
- Height
- Dehydration: Insufficient water consumption can provoke migraines.
- Missed meals: Passing meals can lead to a drop in blood sugar, which can cause migraine.
- Physical stress: Excessive physical activity can cause migraine.
- Medicines: Some drugs can provoke migraines.
- Food products:
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Migraine Diagnostics: Appeal to a Specialist
Migraine diagnosis is usually based on a patient’s history, a description of symptoms and a physical examination. The doctor can also prescribe additional examinations, such as:
- Neurological inspection: To assess the function of the nervous system.
- Magnetic resonance tomography (MRI) of the brain: To exclude other diseases that cause headaches.
- Computed tomography (CT) of the brain: It can also be used to exclude other diseases.
- Blood tests: To exclude other causes of headaches, such as infections or anemia.
II. Migraine treatment: multi -level approach
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Migrant treatment of migraines:
Migrant treatment is divided into two main categories: treatment of seizures (abortive treatment) and preventive treatment.
- Abortive treatment: Aimed at relieved migraine symptoms during an attack.
- Anesthetic drugs: Overcomplex painkillers, such as Ibuprofen, Nenproxen and Acetaminophen, can be effective with migrant migraines.
- TRIPTA: Triptans are a class of drugs specifically designed for the treatment of migraine. They work, narrowing the blood vessels in the brain and blocking the release of substances that cause inflammation. Examples of triptans include collapse, risatriciptan, ethletriptan and albraitriptan.
- Digidrérgotamine (DHE): DHE is a medicine that can be administered intravenously, intramuscularly or nasal for the treatment of strong migraine attacks.
- CGRP antagonists: This is a new class of drugs that block the effect of CGRP, neurotransmitter, which plays a key role in the development of migraine. Examples include gamants (for example, Riemegepant, Arrogupant) and Ditan (for example, lasmititan).
- Anti -rate drugs: Can be used to facilitate nausea and vomiting associated with migraine.
- Preventive treatment: Aimed at reducing the frequency, severity and duration of migraine attacks.
- Beta blockers: Medicines used to treat high blood pressure and heart disease, such as proponolol and metoprolol, can also be effective for migraine prevention.
- Calcium channel blockers: Medicines used to treat high blood pressure and angina pectoris, such as fluanarisis and verapamil, can also be used to prevent migraine.
- Antidepressants: Some antidepressants, such as amitriptylin and wenlafaxin, can be effective for migraine prevention.
- Anticonvulsants: Some anticonvulsants, such as topiramate and valproic acid, can be effective for migraine prevention.
- Monoclonal antibodies to CGRP: Injection drugs aimed at CGRP or its receptor, such as Erenumab, Freanzumab, Galkanzumab and Eptinesumab.
- Botox (botulinum toxin type a): Botox injections in the muscles of the head and neck can be effective for the prevention of chronic migraine.
- Abortive treatment: Aimed at relieved migraine symptoms during an attack.
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Non -drug methods for treating migraines:
Non -drug treatment methods can be effective for alleviating symptoms of migraine and prevention of seizures.
- Biological feedback (biofidbek): A method to learn how to control physiological processes, such as heart rate, blood pressure and muscle tension. Biofidbek can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT): The type of psychotherapy that helps people change the negative thoughts and behavior associated with migraine. KPT can help improve the skills of overcoming pain, reduce stress and improve the quality of life.
- Iglowerie (acupuncture): Traditional Chinese medical practice, which includes the introduction of thin needles into certain points on the body. Acupuncture can be effective to relieve pain and reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.
- Massage: Massage can help relax muscles, reduce tension and improve blood circulation, which can alleviate the symptoms of migraine.
- Yoga and Tai-Chi: These practices can help reduce stress, improve flexibility and strengthen muscles, which can help prevent migraine.
- Relaxation techniques: Relaxation methods, such as deep breathing, meditation and progressive muscle relaxation, can help reduce stress and reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.
- Cold compresses: The use of cold compresses to the head or neck can help relieve pain during migraine attack.
- Darkness and silence: Rest in a dark and quiet room can help reduce the sensitivity to light and sound associated with migraine.
- Regular physical exercises: Regular moderate physical exercises can help reduce stress and improve general health, which can help prevent migraine.
- Sufficient sleep: Compliance with sleep mode and providing enough sleep can help prevent migraine.
- Hydration: Sufficient water consumption during the day can help prevent migraine.
- Regular nutrition: Regular meals and avoiding food gaps can help prevent a drop in blood sugar, which can cause migraine.
- Avoiding triggers: The identification and avoidance of personal migraine triggers can help reduce the frequency of attacks.
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Alternative methods for the treatment of migraines:
Some people find a relief of migraine symptoms using alternative treatment methods. It is important to note that the effectiveness of these methods can vary, and it is necessary to consult a doctor before any new treatment.
- Plants and supplements:
- Beetroot (FEVERFEW): A plant that is traditionally used to treat headaches.
- Betterbur: Betterbur: A plant that can be effective for the prevention of migraine.
- Magnesium: A mineral that can be effective for the prevention of migraine, especially migraines with aura.
- Riboflavin (vitamin B2): Vitamin, which can be effective for the prevention of migraine.
- Coenzim q10: An antioxidant that can be effective for the prevention of migraine.
- Ketogenic diet: A high fat diet and low carbohydrates, which can be effective for reducing the frequency of migraine attacks in some people.
- Marijuana / Kannabis: Some people use marijuana to alleviate the symptoms of migraine, but additional studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety.
- Plants and supplements:
III. Changing lifestyle to control migraine
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Stress management:
Stress is one of the most common migraine triggers. Effective stress management strategies can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.
- Relaxation techniques:
- Deep breathing: slow, deep breathing can help reduce heart rate and blood pressure, which contributes to relaxation.
- Meditation of awareness: concentration of attention on the present moment without condemnation can help reduce stress and improve the overall state of health.
- Progressive muscle relaxation: a method that includes tension and relaxation of various muscle groups, which helps relieve tension and relax.
- Hobbies and interests: Classes that you like can help distract from stress and improve your mood.
- Social support: Communication with friends and family can help reduce stress and improve emotional well -being.
- Professional help: If it is difficult for you to cope with stress yourself, contact a psychologist or therapist.
- Relaxation techniques:
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Compliance with sleep mode:
Violation of the sleep regime can be a migraine trigger. It is important to observe a regular sleep mode, go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
- Creating a relaxing atmosphere before bedtime: A warm bath, reading a book or listening to quiet music can help relax and prepare for sleep.
- Avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bedtime: These substances can disturb a dream.
- Creating a dark, quiet and cool bedroom: This can contribute to better sleep.
- Avoiding the use of electronic devices before bedtime: Blue light emitted by electronic devices can disturb a dream.
- Regular physical exercises: Physical exercises can improve sleep, but avoid intense exercises just before bedtime.
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Proper nutrition and hydration:
Improper nutrition and dehydration can be migraine triggers. It is important to adhere to a healthy diet and drink enough water during the day.
- Regular meals: Passing meals can lead to a drop in blood sugar, which can cause migraine.
- Healthy diet: The use of a large amount of fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help maintain a stable blood sugar and prevent migraine.
- Avoiding trigger products: The identification and avoidance of personal trigger products can help reduce the frequency of attacks.
- Sufficient water consumption: Dehydration can provoke migraines. Try to drink 8-10 glasses of water per day.
- Limiting the use of caffeine and alcohol: These substances can be migraine triggers for some people.
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Regular physical exercises:
Regular moderate physical exercises can help reduce stress, improve general health and contribute to migraine prevention.
- The choice of classes that you like: This will help you adhere to a regular exercise mode.
- Start with small: If you are a beginner in physical exercises, start with short training and gradually increase their duration and intensity.
- Avoiding excessive loads: Excessive physical activity can cause migraine.
- Hydratation before, during and after training: This will help prevent dehydration.
- Warm up and hitch: This will help prevent injuries and reduce muscle stress.
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Keeping a headache diary:
Keeping a headache diary is an effective way to track migraine attacks, identify triggers and evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.
- Write down the date, time and duration of the attack.
- Describe the symptoms, including the intensity of pain, localization and related symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, photophobia and phonophobia.
- Mark possible triggers, such as food products, changes in sleep mode, stress, hormonal changes and environmental factors.
- Write down the medications taken and their effectiveness.
- Mark any other factors that can be associated with an attack, such as physical activity, menstrual cycle or weather changes.
Regular analysis of the headache diary will help you and your doctor develop the most effective migraine treatment plan.
IV. Advanced methods and prospects in the treatment of migraines
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Neuromodulation:
Neuromodulation is a treatment method that uses electrical or magnetic impulses to change the activity of the nervous system. Several methods of neuromodulation showed promising results in the treatment of migraines.
- Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS): TMS uses magnetic impulses to stimulate or suppress the activity of certain areas of the brain. TMS can be effective for the treatment of migraine attacks and the prevention of chronic migraine.
- Transcranial stimulation direct current (TSPT): TSPT uses a weak direct current to stimulate or suppress the activity of certain areas of the brain. TSPT can be effective for the treatment of migraine attacks and the prevention of chronic migraine.
- Stimulation of the vagus nerve (SBN): SBN uses electrical impulses to stimulate the vagus nerve, which plays an important role in the regulation of various body functions, including pain and inflammation. SBN can be effective for the treatment of migraine attacks and the prevention of chronic migraine.
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Target therapy:
The development of new drugs aimed at specific mechanisms involved in the development of migraines is a promising direction in the treatment of this disease.
- CGRP antagonists (gaptors and monoclonal antibodies): These drugs block the effect of CGRP, neurotransmitter, which plays a key role in the development of migraine.
- Glial activation inhibitors: Glial cells play an important role in the development of inflammation in the brain, which can contribute to the development of migraine. Glial activation inhibitors can be effective for migraine prevention.
- Medications aimed at ion channels: Ion channels play an important role in the transmission of nerve impulses in the brain. Medicines aimed at ion channels can be effective for the treatment of migraines.
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Gene therapy:
Gene therapy is a treatment method that includes the introduction of genetic material into cells for the treatment or prevention of diseases. Gene therapy can be a promising method for treating migraine in the future.
- Introduction of genes encoding CGRP inhibitors: This can reduce CGRP in the brain and prevent migraine attacks.
- Introduction of genes encoding anti -inflammatory factors: This can reduce inflammation in the brain and prevent migraine attacks.
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Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning:
AI and machine learning are used to develop more personalized and effective methods for treating migraines.
- Prediction of migraine attacks: Machine learning algorithms can analyze data from headache diaries and other sources in order to predict migraine attacks and allow people to take preventive measures.
- Development of personalized treatment plans: AI can analyze the patient’s data to develop personalized treatment plans taking into account individual triggers, symptoms and preferences.
- Identification of new medicinal goals: AI can analyze large amounts of data to identify new medicinal purposes for the treatment of migraine.
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Telemedicine:
Telemedicine allows people to receive medical care remotely, using technologies such as video conferences and mobile applications. Telemedicine can be especially useful for people with migraine who live in remote areas or have difficulties with visiting a doctor.
- Online consultations with a doctor: Telemedicine allows people to consult a doctor online and receive tips on the treatment of migraines.
- Remote monitoring of symptoms: Mobile applications and other devices can be used for remote monitoring of migraine symptoms and feedback from a doctor.
- Access to specialized assistance: Telemedicine can provide access to specialized care for the treatment of migraine to people living in areas where there are no headache specialists.
V. Life with migraine: tips and support
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Creating a support system:
Life with migraine can be a difficult task, and it is important to have a support system that will help you cope with this disease.
- Communicate with friends and family: Tell your loved ones about your migraine and how it affects your life. Ask them about support and understanding.
- Join the support groups: Support groups can provide you with the opportunity to communicate with other people suffering from migraine, share experience and receive tips.
- Contact a psychologist or therapist: A psychologist or therapist can help you cope with the emotional problems associated with migraine, such as stress, anxiety and depression.
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Planning and preparation:
Planning and preparation can help you cope with migraine in everyday life.
- Carry medications with migraine with you: Always have medicines for migraine at hand so that you can take them at the first signs of an attack.
- Have a cold compress or a package with ice at hand: A cold compress or a package with ice can help relieve pain during a migraine attack.
- Plan your days taking into account the migraine: Avoid situations that can provoke a migraine attack, and plan your days so that you have enough time to relax and relaxation.
- Report your migraine at work or at school: If you work or study, tell your colleagues or teachers about your migraine and how it can affect your work or study.
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Self -service:
Caring for itself is important for everyone, but it is especially important for people suffering from migraine.
- Farm up: Try to sleep 7-8 hours every night.
- Eat healthy foods: Use a lot of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
- Drink enough water: Try to drink 8-10 glasses of water per day.
- Regularly engage in physical exercises: Moderate physical exercises can help reduce stress and improve the overall health.
- Manage stress: Use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga to reduce stress.
- Take breaks during the day: Regular breaks can help you relax and prevent overwork.
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Training:
Learning about migraine can help you better understand this disease and learn how to manage it.
- Learn more about migraines: Read books, articles and websites about migraine.
- Visit seminars and conferences: Seminars and conferences can provide you with the opportunity to learn about recent studies and methods of treatment of migraine.
- Ask questions to your doctor: Feel free to ask your doctor questions about migraine and how to treat it.
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Search for new treatment methods:
Migraine is a complex disease, and it is not always possible to find effective treatment the first time. Do not be afraid to try new treatment methods until you find what is suitable for you.
- Discuss treatment options with your doctor: Your doctor can offer you new medicines, therapy or other treatment methods that may be effective for you.
- Consider participation in clinical research: Clinical studies can provide you with the opportunity to try new treatment methods for migraines that are not yet available to the general public.
- Be patient: The search for effective treatment of migraine can take time. Do not despair if the first method of treatment that you try will not work. Continue to work with your doctor to find a treatment plan that suits you.
This article provides detailed information about migraine and various strategies for treating and managing this disease. Remember that each person is unique, and what works for one may not work for the other. It is important to work with your doctor to develop a personalized treatment plan that is right for you.