Life without migraine: Guide to action

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Life without migraine: Guide to action

I. Understanding migraines: more than just a headache

Migraine is a neurological disease characterized by intense, pulsating headaches, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting and increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) and sound (phonophobia). Unlike ordinary headaches, migraine can seriously violate everyday life, preventing work, study and social interactions. Understanding various aspects of migraine is the first step to the effective management of this state.

1.1. Migraine types:

Migraine is not a homogeneous disease. There are various types of migraines, each of which has its own characteristics and symptoms:

  • Migraine with aura: This type of migraine is characterized by the presence of aura – temporary neurological symptoms preceding headaches. The aura can manifest itself in the form of visual disorders (for example, flickering lights, zigzag lines, loss of vision), sensory disorders (for example, tingling or numbness), motor disorders (for example, weakness) or speech disorders. The aura usually lasts from a few minutes to an hour and disappears until the headache begins.
  • Migraine without aura: This is the most common type of migraine in which headache occurs without any previous neurological symptoms.
  • Chronic migraine: This type of migraine is characterized by headaches that occur at least 15 days a month for at least 3 months, and at least 8 days a month correspond to migraine criteria. Chronic migraine can be very exhausting and significantly reduce the quality of life.
  • Abdominal migraine: This type of migraine is more often found in children and is characterized by abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite. Headache may be absent.
  • Hemiplegic migraine: This rare type of migraine is characterized by weakness or paralysis of one side of the body (hemiplegia) during the aura. Hemiplegic migraine can be family (hereditary) or sporadic (by chance).
  • Basial migraine: This type of migraine is characterized by symptoms associated with the brain stem, such as dizziness, ears noise, dialogue in the eyes, dysarthria (speech impairment), ataxia (impaired coordination) and loss of consciousness.
  • Ophthalmoplegic migraine: This rare type of migraine is characterized by paralysis of the muscles that control the movement of the eyes.

1.2. Migraines symptoms:

Symptoms of migraines can vary from person to person and from an attack to the attack. Some general symptoms of migraines include:

  • Intensive, pulsating headache: The pain is usually localized on one side of the head, but can occur on both sides.
  • Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms can be very exhausting and often accompany headache.
  • Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia): Bright light can enhance headache and cause discomfort.
  • Increased sensitivity to sound (phonophobia): Loud sounds can enhance headache and cause discomfort.
  • Increased sensitivity to odors (osmophobia): Some smells can cause nausea and enhance headache.
  • Dizziness: Sensation of rotation or instability.
  • Visual violation: Visual blurred, flickering lights, zigzag lines, loss of vision.
  • Fatigue and weakness: A feeling of strong fatigue and weakness.
  • Difficulties with concentration: Difficulties with focusing attention and memorization of information.
  • Irritability: A feeling of irritation and nervousness.
  • Nasal congestion or runny nose: These symptoms can occur due to inflammation in the nasal sinuses.
  • Pain in the neck: Pain and stiffness in the neck.

1.3. Migraine phases:

Migraine often proceeds in several phases:

  • Vargeable phase (Prevostniki): This phase can begin a few hours or days before the start of a headache. Symptoms of the prodromal phase may include mood changes, fatigue, difficulties with concentration, stiffness in the neck, frequent urination, craving for certain food products.
  • Aura: This phase is present only in people with a migraine with an aura. Symptoms of aura usually last from a few minutes to an hour and disappear until the headache begins.
  • Headache: This phase is the most painful and exhausting. A headache can last from several hours to several days.
  • The postrome phase (recovery): This phase occurs after the end of the headache. Symptoms of the postrome phase may include fatigue, weakness, difficulties with concentration, irritability.

1.4. Migraine diagnosis:

Migraine diagnosis is usually based on the medical history, physical examination and neurological examination. The doctor can ask questions about the symptoms, frequency and duration of headaches, as well as factors that can provoke attacks. In some cases, additional studies such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) of the brain can be prescribed, to exclude other causes of a headache. It is important to consult a doctor to make a correct diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.

II. Migraine triggers: identification and avoidance of provoking factors

Migraine triggers are factors that can provoke a migraine attack of susceptible people. The identification and avoidance of triggers is an important part of migraine management. Triggers can be different for different people, and their identification often requires a diary of headaches.

2.1. Food triggers:

Certain foods and drinks can provoke migraines in some people. Some common food triggers include:

  • Sustained cheeses: They contain thyramin, an amino acid that can affect blood vessels.
  • Processed meat: Contains nitrates and nitrites that can expand the blood vessels.
  • Chocolate: Contains caffeine and phenylethylamine, which can affect the level of neurotransmitters.
  • Alcohol: Especially red wine and beer can cause dehydration and expansion of blood vessels.
  • Artificial sweeteners: Aspartems and other artificial sweeteners can provoke migraines in some people.
  • Food additives: Glutamate sodium (MSG) and other food additives can cause headaches.
  • Caffeine: Although caffeine can help relieve headache in some cases, its oversupply or a sharp cessation of use can provoke migraines.
  • Citrus fruit: Some people can cause migraine.

2.2. Environmental factors:

Certain environmental factors can provoke migraines:

  • Weather: Changes in atmospheric pressure, temperature, humidity and wind can cause migraine.
  • Bright light: Bright light, flashing light and sunlight can provoke migraines.
  • Loud sounds: Loud sounds, noisy places and certain musical rhythms can cause headaches.
  • Strong smells: Perfume, smoke, chemicals and other strong smells can provoke migraines.
  • Height: The rise to a large height can cause migraine due to a decrease in oxygen level.

2.3. Stress and emotional factors:

Stress, anxiety and other emotional factors are common migraine triggers.

  • Stress: Physical and emotional stress can provoke migraines.
  • Anxiety: Anxiety and anxiety can cause headaches.
  • Depression: Depression often accompanies migraines and can aggravate its symptoms.
  • Lack of sleep: The lack of sleep or impaired sleep mode can provoke migraines.
  • Passing of food intake: Passing for food intake can lead to a decrease in blood sugar and cause headache.

2.4. Hormonal changes:

Hormonal changes, especially in women, can provoke migraines.

  • Menstruation: Migraine is often associated with the menstrual cycle in women.
  • Pregnancy: In some women, migraine decreases during pregnancy, while in others it intensifies.
  • Menopause: Menopause can cause changes in the frequency and intensity of migraine.
  • Hormonal therapy: Reception of hormonal contraceptives or replacement of hormonal therapy can affect migraine.

2.5. Other triggers:

  • Physical stress: Excessive physical activity can provoke migraines.
  • Incorrect posture: Incorrect posture can cause tension in the muscles of the neck and shoulders and provoke headache.
  • Dehydration: The lack of fluid in the body can cause headache.
  • Some drugs: Some drugs can provoke migraines as a side effect.

2.6. Maintaining a diary of headaches:

Keeping a diary of headaches is an effective way to identify migraine triggers. In the diary you should record information about:

  • The date and time of the beginning of the headache.
  • Symptoms accompanying headache.
  • Alleged triggers, such as food, drinks, weather, stress and sleep.
  • Medicines that were taken to relieve headache.
  • Effectiveness of drugs.
  • Headache duration.

Analyzing the diary of headaches, you can identify patterns and determine the factors that provoke migraines.

III. Migraine treatment: strategies for relief and prevention

Migraine treatment is aimed at alleviating the symptoms during an attack and preventing future attacks. There are various strategies for the treatment of migraines, including drugs, a change in lifestyle and alternative treatment methods.

3.1. Medicines for alleviating migraine symptoms (abortive treatment):

These drugs are taken during a migraine attack to relieve pain and other symptoms.

  • Painkillers:
    • Nonsteroidal anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Ketoprofen.
    • Paracetamol: Acetaminophen.
  • TRIPTA: Constantin, risatriciptan, gymitrippan, naratriptan, frutitriptan, ethletribrib. Triptans are specific drugs for the treatment of migraine, which narrow the blood vessels in the brain and block the release of substances that cause inflammation.
  • Ergotamines: Ergotamine, dihydroergotamine. Ergotamines also narrow the blood vessels in the brain, but have more side effects than triptans.
  • Antimetics: Metoclopramide, coolroperazin, domperidone. Anthemists help reduce nausea and vomiting accompanying migraine.
  • Combined drugs: Some drugs contain a combination of painkillers and other drugs, such as caffeine, to enhance the effect.

3.2. Medications for migraine prevention (preventive treatment):

These drugs are taken daily to reduce the frequency, intensity and duration of migraine attacks. Preventive treatment is usually recommended for people whose migraine occurs often (more than 4 days a month) or if attacks seriously violate their life.

  • Beta blockers: Propranolol, metoprolol, Atenolol. Beta blockers reduce blood pressure and reduce heart rate, which can help prevent migraine.
  • Antidepressants: Amititriptylin, NORTRIPTILIN, WENLAFAXIN. Antidepressants can increase serotonin levels in the brain, which can help prevent migraine.
  • Anticonvulsants: Topiramate, valproic acid, size. Anticonvulsants stabilize electrical activity in the brain, which can help prevent migraine.
  • Calcium channel blockers: Flunarizin. Calcium channel blockers block the flow of calcium into the cells, which can help prevent narrowing of the blood vessels.
  • Monoclonal antibodies to CGRP (Calcitonin General-tied peptide): Erenumab, Freanzumab, Galkanzumab, Eptynesumab. These drugs block CGRP, protein, which plays a role in the development of migraine.
  • Botulotoxin (Botox): Botulotoxin injections can be effective for the treatment of chronic migraine.

3.3. Life change change:

A change in lifestyle can play an important role in managing migraine.

  • Regular sleep: Try to sleep and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
  • Regular nutrition: Do not miss food meals and eat regularly.
  • Regular physical exercises: Do moderate physical exercises, such as walking, swimming or yoga, at least 30 minutes a day.
  • Stress management: Practice relaxation methods such as meditation, yoga or tai-chi.
  • Limiting the use of caffeine and alcohol: Moderate use of caffeine can help relieve headache, but its excess or a sharp cessation of use can provoke migraines. Avoid drinking alcohol, especially red wine and beer.
  • Maintaining hydration: Drink enough liquids during the day, especially water.
  • Avoiding famous triggers: Avoid food, drinks and environmental factors, which, as you know, provoke migraines.

3.4. Alternative treatment methods:

Some alternative treatment methods can help alleviate the symptoms of migraines and prevent future attacks.

  • Acupuncture: The acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice in which thin needles are introduced into certain points on the body.
  • Massage: Massage can help relieve tension in the muscles of the neck and shoulders and relieve headache.
  • Biological feedback: Biological feedback is a method that allows people to learn how to control their physiological functions, such as heart rate and muscle tension.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT): KPT is a type of psychotherapy that helps people change their thoughts and behavior that migraines can contribute.
  • Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS): TMS is a non -invasive procedure in which magnetic impulses are used to stimulate nerve cells in the brain.
  • Food additives: Some nutritional supplements, such as magnesium, riboflavin and coenzyme Q10, can help prevent migraine. It is important to consult a doctor before taking any nutritional supplements.

IV. Migraine and related diseases:

Migraine is often associated with other diseases, which can complicate diagnostics and treatment. It is important to consider the presence of concomitant diseases when developing a treatment plan for migraine.

4.1. Depression and anxiety:

Depression and anxiety are often accompanied by migraines. People with migraine have a higher risk of depression and anxiety, and vice versa. These conditions can aggravate the symptoms of migraines and reduce the quality of life. Treatment of depression and anxiety can help alleviate the symptoms of migraine.

4.2. Irritable intestine syndrome (SRK):

SRK is a digestive disorder, which is characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and constipation. SRK often accompanies migraines. Some studies have shown that people with migraine have a higher risk of the development of SRK, and vice versa.

4.3. Fibromyalgia:

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disease that is characterized by common pain in the body, fatigue, sleep disorders and cognitive disorders. Fibromyalgia often accompanies migraines.

4.4. Epilepsy:

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder, which is characterized by repeating attacks. Some studies have shown that people with migraine have a higher risk of epilepsy, and vice versa.

4.5. Stroke:

Migraine with aura is associated with an increased risk of stroke, especially in women taking hormonal contraceptives. It is important to discuss the risks and advantages of hormonal contraceptives with a doctor if you suffer from a migraine with an aura.

4.6. Cardiovascular diseases:

Migraine can be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, such as coronary heart disease and stroke. It is important to control the risk factors of cardiovascular diseases, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking.

V. Migraine in children and adolescents:

Migraine can occur at any age, including in children and adolescents. Migraine in children can manifest itself in different ways than in adults.

5.1. Symptoms of migraines in children:

  • Headache: A headache can be pulsating or pressure, usually localized on one side of the head.
  • Nausea and vomiting: Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of migraines in children.
  • Abdominal pain: Abdominal pain may be the only symptom of migraine in children.
  • Increased sensitivity to light and sound: Children with migraine can be sensitive to light and sound.
  • Dizziness: Dizziness can be a symptom of migraine in children.
  • Mood changes: Children with migraine can be irritable, capricious or depressed.

5.2. Diagnosis of migraine in children:

Diagnosis of migraine in children is based on the medical history, physical examination and neurological examination. The doctor can ask questions about the symptoms, frequency and duration of headaches, as well as factors that can provoke attacks. In some cases, additional studies, such as an MRI of the brain, can be prescribed to exclude other causes of a headache.

5.3. Migraine treatment in children:

Treatment of migraine in children is aimed at alleviating symptoms during an attack and preventing future attacks.

  • Painkillers: Paracetamol, Ibuprofen.
  • TRIPTA: Triptans can be used to treat migraines in adolescents, but they are not approved for use in young children.
  • Life change change: Regular sleep, regular nutrition, regular physical exercises, stress management.
  • Alternative treatment methods: Acupuncture, massage, biological feedback.
  • Preventive treatment: Preventive treatment can be recommended for children whose migraine occurs often or if the attacks seriously violate their lives. Medicines that can be used to prevent migraine in children include beta-blockers, antidepressants and anticonvulsants.

VI. Migraine and pregnancy:

Migraine can affect pregnancy, and pregnancy can affect migraine. It is important to discuss migraine with a doctor if you are pregnant or plan to get pregnant.

6.1. The effect of pregnancy on migraine:

In many women, migraine decreases during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters. This is due to an increase in estrogen during pregnancy. However, in some women, migraine intensifies during pregnancy.

6.2. The influence of migraines on pregnancy:

Migraine can be associated with an increased risk of pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia (high blood pressure and protein in the urine), premature birth and low weight at birth. However, most women with migraine have a healthy pregnancy and give birth to healthy children.

6.3. Migraine treatment during pregnancy:

Migraine treatment during pregnancy should be aimed at alleviating the symptoms and preventing complications. It is important to avoid taking drugs that can be harmful to the child.

  • Non -drug treatment methods: Rest, cold compresses, massage, acupuncture.
  • Painkillers: Paracetamol is considered safe for admission during pregnancy. The reception of NSAIDs should be avoided, especially in the third trimester of pregnancy.
  • TRIPTA: The safety of triptans during pregnancy has not been established. They should be used only if the benefits for the mother exceeds the risk for the child.
  • Preventive treatment: Preventive treatment of migraines during pregnancy should be used only if it is absolutely necessary. Medicines that can be harmful to the child should be avoided.

VII. New directions in the Migraine study:

Migraine studies continue, and new knowledge is constantly emerging about the mechanisms for the development of migraine and new treatment methods.

7.1. Genetic research:

Genetic studies have revealed a number of genes that are associated with an increased risk of migraine development. These genes can play a role in the regulation of the nervous system, blood vessels and inflammation.

7.2. Neurovalization:

Neurousualization, such as MRI and PET, is used to study changes in the brain during migraine attacks. These studies have shown that during migraine attacks there are changes in the activity of certain areas of the brain, such as thalamus, hypothalamus and brain stem.

7.3. New medications:

New drugs are being developed for the treatment and prevention of migraine. These drugs are aimed at various migraine development mechanisms, such as CGRP and other neurotransmitters.

7.4. Non -invasive methods of brain stimulation:

Non -invasive methods of brain stimulation, such as TMS and transcranial stimulation of direct current (TDCS), are used to treat migraines. These methods can help modulate the activity of nerve cells in the brain and reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks.

VIII. Resources and support for people with migraine:

There are various resources and organizations that provide information, support and resources for people suffering from migraine.

  • National organizations to combat migraines: These organizations provide information about migraine, research, treatment and support.
  • Online forums and support groups: These forums and groups allow people suffering from migraine, communicate with each other, share experience and receive support.
  • Specialist doctors in headache: Specialist doctors in headaches have experience in the diagnosis and treatment of migraines.
  • Psychologists and psychotherapists: Psychologists and psychotherapists can help people suffering from migraine, cope with stress, anxiety and depression, who often accompany migraines.

IX. Life with migraine: tips for adapting and improving the quality of life:

Life with migraine can be difficult, but with the help of proper treatment and adaptation strategies, you can improve the quality of life.

  • Take your diagnosis: Accept the fact that you have a migraine, and start actively managing your condition.
  • Seek for help: Feel free to seek help from doctors, psychologists, support groups and other resources.
  • Create a treatment plan: Develop an individual treatment plan with a doctor, which includes medicines, a change in lifestyle and alternative treatment methods.
  • Be patient: Migraine treatment can take time, and several attempts may be required to find the most effective treatment plan.
  • Manage stress: Practice relaxation methods such as meditation, yoga or tai-chi to reduce stress.
  • Observe a healthy lifestyle: Sleep regularly, eat great, do physical exercises and avoid famous migraine triggers.
  • Be active: Do not let migraines limit your life. Continue to engage in your favorite classes, but do it taking into account your restrictions.
  • Be optimistic: Keep a positive attitude and believe that you can control your migraine and live a full life.
  • Teach yourself: Find out as much as possible about migraine so that you can make reasonable decisions about your treatment and care for yourself.
  • Support others: Share your experience with other people suffering from migraine, and offer them support.
  • Barride for yourself: Be an active participant in your treatment and do not hesitate to ask questions and express your fears.
  • Do not give up: Life with migraine can be difficult, but do not give up. With the help of proper treatment and adaptation strategies, you can improve the quality of your life and live a full life.

X. Myths and misconceptions about migraines:

There are many myths and misconceptions about migraine, which can impede the correct diagnosis and treatment. It is important to dispel these myths and get reliable information about migraine.

  • Myth: Migraine is just a headache.
    • Fact: Migraine is a neurological disease that is characterized by intense headaches, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting and increased sensitivity to light and sound.
  • Myth: Migraine is a sign of weakness.
    • Fact: Migraine is a biological disease that has nothing to do with weakness or power.
  • Myth: Migraine is a female disease.
    • Fact: Migraine affects both men and women, although women are more susceptible to this disease.
  • Myth: Migraine is a frivolous disease.
    • Fact: Migraine can seriously disrupt everyday life and significantly reduce the quality of life.
  • Myth: Migraine can be cured.
    • Fact: Migraine is a chronic disease that cannot be cured, but can be effectively controlled by treatment and changes in lifestyle.
  • Myth: All headaches are the same.
    • Fact: There are various types of headaches, such as headaches of tension, cluster headaches and migraines. Each type of headache has its own characteristics and requires its approach to treatment.
  • Myth: Migraine is caused only by stress.
    • Fact: Stress can be a migraine trigger, but there are many other factors that can provoke attacks, such as food, weather and hormonal changes.
  • Myth: Migraine medicines are addictive.
    • Fact: Some medicines for migraine, such as opioid painkillers, can cause addiction, but other drugs, such as tripatans and preventive drugs, do not cause addiction.
  • Myth: Alternative methods of treatment are ineffective in migraine.
    • Fact: Some alternative methods of treatment, such as acupuncture, massage and biological feedback, can be effective for alleviating migraine symptoms.

The exposure of these myths and obtaining reliable information about migraine can help people suffering from this disease, get the correct diagnosis, treatment and support necessary to improve the quality of life.

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