Migraines: Pain Prevention And Management

A typical headache is an annoyance

A typical headache is an annoyance. It can make work seem a little longer and family life a little harder. For many people, taking an over-the-counter pain reliever is sufficient to quell the pain and get on with their day. For those who suffer from migraines, however, a headache doesn't end with a dose of acetaminophen.

What is a migraine?

A migraine headache is not simply a bad headache. The word refers to a particular type of vascular headache. It is characterized by changes in the blood vessels in and around the brain. A large nerve branch sets off a chain reaction in the chemistry of the brain, changing the levels of certain chemicals that regulate blood flow. The vessels become overfilled and the distention results in pain, typically on only one side of the head.

Other symptoms may accompany the pain of a migraine. Dizziness, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, cognitive difficulty, and something called "aura" can occur before, during, or after a migraine. An aura is a rather mysterious phenomenon that some migraine sufferers report. It is usually some type of sensory distortion that is experienced just prior to a migraine attack. Some patients report experiencing strange smells or tastes. Others have visual symptoms like seeing flashing lights or experiencing tunnel vision. Not every patient experiences aura and it may change from attack to attack for those who do.

What causes migraines?

No one knows precisely what causes migraines to occur. Some patients will track their daily habits and food intake to discover certain "triggers" that frequently result in a migraine. Certain foods are often the culprit. Artificial sweeteners, caffeine, and chocolate are triggers for some patients. Other may find nitrates in processed meats or the tyramine in red wines problematic. Hormonal changes are also thought to have an effect on migraines as well. A doctor or pain clinic staff may be able to help a patient uncover their own triggers.

Can migraines be prevented?

As no one can say exactly what makes a migraine to start, we likewise cannot say exactly how to keep one from starting. Dietary changes may keep some headaches at bay and controlling environmental factors may help. Sufficient sleep may make a dramatic difference in the number of headaches experienced as well. There are also a number of different medications that may be taken to help prevent migraines.

How are migraines treated?

Many treatments can be implemented to relieve migraines. There are medications for both the treatment of symptoms during an attack and for preventing the attack from occurring. Stress management tools are often helpful in reducing instances of migraine pain. Some alternative treatments like acupuncture and yoga may also help alleviate the symptoms of migraines.

How are migraines managed?

In most cases, a board-certified physician will manage the care of a migraine sufferer. This may be a family doctor or general practitioner, a neurologist or a pain specialist. Many patients find that a pain clinic is their best source for a multi-faceted treatment plan. Finding a workable treatment plan may help migraine sufferers manage their pain and increase their pain-free days.

by: Roger Ubik

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