Treatment
Migraine therapy aims to:
- Prevent headaches
- Reduce headache severity and frequency
- Restore your ability to function
- Improve quality of life
Treatment options include:
Medications
Pain medications are often needed to ease or stop the pain. Over-the-counter pain pills may ease mild symptoms.
Warning: Regular use of some over-the-counter medications may cause a rebound headache.
Some prescription medications act directly to stop the cause of the migraine headache. These include drugs that:
- Quiet nerve pathways
- Reduce inflammation
- Bind receptors for serotonin, a brain chemical
These drugs can be taken by mouth. They may act more quickly in forms that dissolve in the mouth, are inhaled through the nose, or injected. Your doctor can help you choose the medication best for you.
Medications that can stop a migraine once it has begin include:
- Ergots
- Triptans
- Steroids
- Acetaminophen /pain medication
- Medications for nausea
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS)
Other drugs can help prevent migraines for people with frequent migraines. Preventive drugs are taken every day. Classes of preventative medications include:
- Beta-blockers
- Calcium channel blockers
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Anticonvulsants
Self-Care During the Migraine
- Apply cold compresses to painful areas of your head
- Lie in a dark, quiet room
- Apply constant pressure to your temples
- Try to fall asleep
Lifestyle Changes
- Keep a diary. It will help identify what triggers migraines and what helps relieve them.
- Learn stress management and relaxation techniques.
- Consider talking with a counselor. They can help you learn new coping skills and relaxation techniques.
- Exercise regularly.
- If you are a smoker, quit . Smoking may worsen a migraine. It probably also increases the rare chance of stroke during a migraine attack. (especially true if you are a woman taking birth control pills or other hormone replacement therapy)
- Avoid foods that trigger migraines.
- Eat regular meals.
- Maintain your regular sleep pattern even during the weekend or on vacation.
If you are diagnosed with a migraine, follow your doctor's instructions .
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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