Migraine: Complete cure or management of symptoms?

Migraine: Complete cure or management of symptoms?

Migraine is a neurological disease characterized by intense headaches, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting and increased sensitivity to light and sound. For millions of people around the world, migraine is not just a headache, it is an exhausting condition that seriously affects their lives. The question of whether a complete cure for migraine is possible is the subject of constant research and discussions. While scientific data show that a complete cure in the classical sense may not yet be achieved, there are effective strategies for managing symptoms and a significant decrease in the frequency and intensity of attacks, which allows you to improve the quality of life of patients.

Understanding migraines: complex nature of the disease

To understand the issue of cure migraine, it is necessary to understand its complex and multifaceted nature. Migraine is not a simple condition caused by one cause. Rather, this is the result of the complex interaction of genetic predispositions and environmental factors that affect the functioning of the brain.

• Genetics: Studies show that migraine is often inherited. People with the family history of migraines have a higher risk of developing this disease. Certain genes associated with neurotransmitters, ion channels and vascular regulation were identified as potential factors that contribute to the development of migraines. However, the presence of these genes does not guarantee the development of migraines, but rather increases the predisposition to it.

• Neurotransmitter: Neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine and glutamate, play a key role in transmitting signals in the brain. The imbalance of these neurotransmitters can contribute to the development of migraine. For example, a decrease in serotonin levels can cause vasoconstriction, and then vasodilation of blood vessels in the brain, which can provoke a migraine attack.

• Vascular theory: Historically, it was believed that migraine is caused by the expansion and narrowing of the blood vessels in the brain. Although vascular changes really occur during an attack of migraine, it is now believed that they are rather a consequence than the cause of migraine. Nevertheless, the vascular system plays an important role in the pathophysiology of migraine.

• Trigestry: Many factors can provoke a migraine attack of predisposed people. These factors, called triggers, vary from person to person and may include:

  • Stress: Stress is one of the most common migraine triggers. Chronic stress can lead to hormonal imbalance and increased excitability of the nervous system, which increases the risk of migraine.

  • Lack of sleep: Sleep disorders, such as lack of sleep, pouring or irregular sleep mode, can provoke a migraine attack.

  • Weather changes: Changes in atmospheric pressure, temperature or humidity can be triggers for some people.

  • Certain foods and drinks: Some foods and drinks, such as cheese, chocolate, red wine, processed meat and products containing sodium glutamate (MSG), can provoke migraines in sensitive people.

  • Hormonal changes: In women, migraine is often associated with hormonal changes, such as menstruation, pregnancy and menopause.

  • Bright light, loud sounds and strong smells: These sensory incentives can be triggers for some people.

  • Missed meals: The low blood sugar level due to the allowing meal can cause a migraine attack.

  • Dehydration: Insufficient fluid consumption can lead to dehydration, which can provoke migraines.

• The role of the trigeminal nerve: The trigeminal nerve, one of the largest cranial nerves, plays a central role in the pathophysiology of migraine. He is responsible for the transmission of pain signals from the face, head and neck to the brain. Activation of the trigeminal nerve leads to the release of neuropeptides, such as CGRP (calcitonin gene-tied peptide), which plays a key role in the development of migraine. CGRP causes the expansion of blood vessels in the brain, inflammation and sensitization of pain receptors, which leads to a feeling of severe headache.

• Central sensitization: In chronic migraine, central sensitization occurs, in which the nervous system becomes more sensitive to pain signals. This means that even small incentives can cause severe pain. Central sensitization can lead to the fact that migraine becomes more frequent and intense, and is more difficult to treat.

Modern methods of treatment of migraines: symptoms management and prevention

Currently, there is no medicine that would completely cure migraines. However, there are many effective methods of treatment aimed at managing symptoms and the prevention of seizures. Migraine treatment usually includes two main approaches: stopping acute attacks and preventive therapy.

• Relocation of sharp seizures:

  • Anesthetic drugs: Non -steroidal anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Ibuprofen, Neproxen and Ketoprofen, can be effective for stopping light and moderate migraine attacks. Acetaminophen (paracetamol) can also be useful for some people.

  • TRIPTA: Triptans are a class of drugs specially designed for the treatment of migraine. They act by narrowing the blood vessels in the brain and blocking the release of neuropeptides, such as CGRP. Triptans are usually effective for stopping moderate and strong migraine attacks. Examples of triptans include collapse, risatriciptan, naratriptan, zolmitriptan and ethletriptan. It is important to note that triptans should not use people with cardiovascular diseases or uncontrolled high blood pressure.

  • Ergotamines: Ergotamines are another class of drugs that narrow the blood vessels in the brain. They are less effective than triptans and have more side effects. Ergotamines are often used in combination with caffeine.

  • Antimetics: Anthematics are drugs that reduce nausea and vomiting, often accompanying migraines. Examples of anti -emitics include metoclopramide, coolropezine and ondansetron.

  • CGRP Antagonists (heinlets): This new class of drugs, such as Rimehepant (Nurtec ODT) and Ubrelvy, blocks the action of CGRP, which plays a key role in the development of migraine. They can be effective for stopping acute migraine attacks and have less vascular side effects than triptans.

  • Dance (serotonin 5-HT1F receptor Agonists): Lasmiditan is the first and so far the only drug in this class. It selectively activates 5-HT1F receptors, which leads to inhibiting the release of neuropeptides associated with migraine without a vasoconstrictor effect.

• Preventive therapy:

  • Beta blockers: Beta blockers, such as propranolol and metoprolol, are often used to prevent migraine. They act by reducing the frequency of heart contractions and blood pressure, which can reduce the excitability of the nervous system.

  • Antidepressants: Some antidepressants, such as amitriptylin and wenlafaxin, can be effective for migraine prevention. They act by increasing the level of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, in the brain.

  • Anticonvulsants: Some anticonvulsants, such as topiramate and valproic acid, can be effective for migraine prevention. They act by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain.

  • Calcium channel blockers: Flunarizin, calcium channel blocker, is used to prevent migraine, especially migraines with aura.

  • Botulininic toxin (Botox): Botulinic toxin injections in the muscles of the head and neck can be effective for the prevention of chronic migraine (migraine that occurs 15 or more days a month).

  • CGRP Antagonists (preventive use): Antibodies to CGRP (Elendumab, Freanzumab, Galkanzumab) and CGRP receptor inhibitor (epinusumab) are introduced subcutaneously or intravenously once a month or quarter and block the CGRP action, reducing the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks.

  • Monoclonal antibodies to CGRP receptor (antibodies to CGRP Ligand): This type of preparations (for example, Erenumab) are binded directly to the CGRP receptor, blocking its activation.

  • Monoclonal antibodies to CGRP (antibodies to CGRP Ligand): Preparations (for example, Freanzumab, Galkanzumab, Eptynesumab) are associated with the CGRP ligand itself, preventing its binding with the receptor.

Non -drug methods for treating migraines: integrated approach

In addition to drug treatment, non -drug methods play an important role in migraine management that can help reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks.

• Life change change:

  • Regular sleep mode: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.

  • Healthy nutrition: Observe the regular diet and avoid missing food meals. Determine food and drinks that can be your triggers, and avoid them.

  • Regular physical exercises: Regular moderate physical exercises, such as walking, swimming or cycling, can help reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.

  • Stress management: Master stress control techniques, such as meditation, yoga or deep breathing.

  • Sufficient fluid consumption: Drink enough water during the day to avoid dehydration.

• Biological feedback (biofidBEC): BiofidBek is a method that allows people to learn how to control certain physiological functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure and muscle tension. Biofidback can be effective for reducing the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks.

• Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice in which thin needles are inserted into certain points on the body. Studies show that acupuncture can be effective for migraine prevention.

• Massage: Massage can help relax the muscles of the head and neck, which can reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks.

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT): KPT is a type of psychotherapy that helps people change negative thoughts and behavior that can contribute to the development of migraines. KPT can be effective for managing stress, anxiety and depression, which often accompany migraine.

• Neurostimulation devices:

  • Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS): TMS uses magnetic impulses to stimulate certain areas of the brain. Some studies show that the TMS can be effective for stopping acute migraine attacks and for the prevention of migraine.

  • Transcranial electrical stimulation (TPP): TPP uses a weak electric current to stimulate the brain. Some studies show that TPP can be effective for migraine prevention.

  • Non -invasive stimulation of the vagus nerve (NSBN): Stimulation of the vagus nerve (using devices applied to the neck) can be used to stop spicy seizures and prevention of migraine.

• Dietary additives:

  • Magnesium: Magnesium plays an important role in the functioning of the nervous system. Magnesium deficiency can contribute to the development of migraine. Some studies show that taking magnesium additives can help reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.

  • Riboflavin (vitamin B2): Riboflavin is involved in energy metabolism in cells. Some studies show that taking riboflavin additives can help reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.

  • Coenzim q10: Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant that plays an important role in energy metabolism in cells. Some studies show that the intake of the Coenzyme Coenzyme adds can help reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.

  • Melatonin: Melatonin is a hormone that regulates the cycle of sleep and wakefulness. Some studies show that taking melatonin additives can help reduce the frequency of migraine attacks, especially in people with sleep disorders.

  • Parsley (Feverfew): Petruschens is a medicinal plant that is traditionally used to treat headaches. Some studies show that taking parsley additives can help reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.

Prospects for the future: new directions in the treatment of migraines

Migraine studies continue, and new treatment methods are under development. Some of the most promising areas of research include:

• Development of new drugs affecting CGRP: Researchers continue to develop new drugs that block the action of CGRP, both for stopping acute attacks and for the prevention of migraine. These drugs can be more effective and have less side effects than existing treatment methods.

• Research in the field of migraine genetics: Understanding the genetic factors contributing to the development of migraine can lead to the development of new methods of treatment aimed at specific genetic targets.

• The use of artificial intelligence (AI) for the diagnosis and treatment of migraines: AI can be used to analyze large volumes of data about patients with migraine to identify factors that contribute to the development of migraine, and develop individual treatment plans.

• Development of new devices for neurostimulations: Researchers are working on the creation of new neurostimulation devices that would be more effective and convenient to use.

Life with migraine: how to improve the quality of life

Migraine can have a significant impact on the quality of life. However, there are strategies that can help people with migraine live a full -fledged life:

• Keeping a headache diary: Keeping a headache diary can help you determine the migraine triggers and track the effectiveness of treatment.

• Development of an action plan for migraine: Discuss with the doctor what medications and methods of treatment should be used when a migraine attack appears.

• Message about your migraine family, friends and colleagues: Explain to them what migraine is and how it affects you. This will help them understand your needs and support you.

• Connection to the support group: Communication with other people suffering from migraine can be useful and supportive.

• Caring for yourself: Select time for yourself to relax and relax.

Conclusion: control, not a cure, today

Despite the fact that there is no complete cure for migraine yet, modern treatment methods can effectively manage symptoms and significantly improve the quality of life of people suffering from this disease. A combined approach, including drug treatment, non -drug methods and a change in lifestyle, allows most people with migraine to reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks and live a full life. Continuing research in the field of migraine gives hope for the development of new, more effective methods of treatment in the future. It is important to remember that each person is unique, and the treatment of migraines should be individual and developed together with the doctor. The patient’s active participation in the treatment process and close cooperation with the doctor are the key to successful migraine management.