Understanding Migraines

Study Notes

Migraine is a common and disabling neurological condition characterized by recurrent, intense headaches often accompanied by other symptoms.
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, and sensitivity to sound.

Migraine attacks have distinct phases that can help people manage their disease.
Each phase has distinct symptoms that can serve as warning signs and signal the need for abortive medication.

Symptoms include irritability, light/sound sensitivity, nausea, yawning, mood change, difficulty in sleeping, fatigue, muscle stiffness, and problems in concentrating.

Symptoms include visual disturbances, temporary loss of sight, numbness, and tingling.

Symptoms include throbbing pain (one or both sides of the head), drilling, prickly or burning feeling, nausea, vomiting, giddiness, insomnia, nasal congestion, anxiety, depressed mood, sensitivity to light, smell, and sound, and neck pain and stiffness.

Symptoms include difficulty concentrating, fatigue, depressed mood, euphoric mood, and decreased energy.

There is no cure for migraines, but they can be managed with medications, avoiding/managing triggers, and alternative remedies.
Medications to stop migraines include triptans, ditans, gepants, dihydroergotamine, and antiemetic medications.
Medications to prevent migraines include antiseizure medications, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, monoclonal antibodies, tricyclic antidepressants, and SNRI's.
Over-the-counter medications include NSAIDs and acetaminophen.
Alternative migraine remedies include botulinum toxin type A injections, acupuncture, biofeedback, and relaxation techniques.

Common triggers to manage/avoid include stress, caffeine and alcohol, dehydration, light, smell, medication overuse, and food (chocolate, cheese, artificial sweeteners, etc.).
Migraine triggers vary from person to person.