Emerging Treatments for Migraine: Managing a Common Neurological Disorder
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Blog
Date: 07-06-2023
Migraine is one of the most common neurological disorders and is often confused with a headache. A person with migraine suffers from severe headaches; constant pain and irritation can make the disorder unbearable.
Around 1 in 7 people get migraines, which are more commonly seen in women as compared to men. Therefore, it is important to understand what a migraine is, its causes, symptoms, and treatment.
What is a migraine?
A migraine is a neurological disorder characterized by intense headaches that can significantly disrupt daily life. It goes beyond a regular headache and often involves throbbing pain, typically on one side of the head.
Migraines are a serious condition that can have a significant impact on individuals. They are classified as the third most prevalent illness in the world and the sixth most disabling.
Headaches come in more than 150 types, categorized as primary or secondary. Migraines belong to the primary headache group, meaning they aren't caused by other medical conditions. Primary headaches are diagnosed clinically without the need for blood tests or imaging studies.
Conversely, secondary headaches arise as symptoms of underlying health problems. Identifying the cause of secondary headaches often involves comprehensive medical examinations and additional tests.
Migraine Types and Symptoms:
Several types of migraines exist:
Migraine without aura: The most common type, characterized by moderate to severe pulsating pain on one side of the head,
migraine with aura: This type involves visual disturbances or other sensory changes, such as seeing flashing lights, zigzag lines, or experiencing tingling sensations, before or during the headache phase.
Chronic migraine: When a person experiences migraines for 15 or more days per month for at least three months, with at least eight of those days being migraines.
Hemiplegic migraine: Rare and characterized by temporary paralysis or weakness on one side of the body before or during the migraine attack, along with other aura symptoms.
Vestibular migraine: Associated with dizziness, vertigo, and problems with balance and coordination.
Menstrual migraine: Migraines that are triggered by hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle.
Retinal migraine: A rare type that causes temporary vision loss or blindness in one eye, usually lasting less than an hour.
Status migrainosus: A severe and prolonged migraine attack lasting more than 72 hours, requiring medical intervention.
Other variants: There are additional less common subtypes, including abdominal migraine (affecting mainly children), ophthalmoplegic migraine, and more.
Migraine symptoms :
Symptoms of a migraine can vary among individuals but commonly include:
It's important to note that individuals may experience some or all of these symptoms, and their intensity can vary from one episode to another.
Tips on home remedies for migraines:
Home remedies that may provide relief for migraines include:
Rest in a quiet, dark room to minimize sensory stimulation.
Apply a cold or warm compress to the head or neck.
Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.
Apply gentle pressure or massage to the temples or scalp.
Try using essential oils like lavender or peppermint for aromatherapy.
Apply a cold or warm towel to the forehead or back of the neck.
Identify and avoid trigger factors such as certain foods, stress, or a lack of sleep.
Practice regular exercise, manage stress, and maintain a healthy lifestyle overall.
Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.
Many times, it becomes challenging to manage migraine symptoms at home. To prevent unnecessary sufferance, it is advisable to take a doctor’s help
Medical Treatment to Manage Migraine
Over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription medications like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin can help alleviate mild to moderate migraines.
Triptans: Prescription medications specifically designed to treat migraines by constricting blood vessels and blocking pain pathways in the brain.
Ergotamine derivatives: These medications are effective for treating moderate to severe migraines and are available in various forms like oral tablets or nasal sprays.
Anti-nausea medications: Drugs like metoclopramide or ondansetron can help manage nausea and vomiting associated with migraines.
Preventive medications: If migraines are frequent or severe, a healthcare professional may prescribe preventive medications, such as beta-blockers, anticonvulsants, or antidepressants, to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks.
Botox injections: In some cases, injections of botulinum toxin (Botox) into specific head and neck muscles can help prevent chronic migraines.
CGRP inhibitors: These newer medications block the activity of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), a protein involved in migraine attacks.
It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan for migraines. They can evaluate your specific symptoms and medical history to determine the most appropriate treatment options for you.
Conclusion
There are numerous emerging treatments for migraine, a common neurological disorder. But it is necessary to consult a head specialist doctor in Patna to know more effective treatment options available in a super specialty hospital in Patna.
You can search for a head specialist doctor near me to find the best expert help.
Migraine is not a pain to ignore, if someone in your family is having a constant headache and tiredness then book an appointment with Big Apollo Super Speciality hospital in Patna
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