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A migraine is a painful headache that sometimes occurs with sensitivity to light, sound, and smell. The most common symptom is an extreme, debilitating headache, usually on one side of the head, which is often described as intense throbbing or pulsating pain.
Sufferers may experience a range of additional migraine symptoms like sensory sensitivity, vision changes, dizziness, general malaise, nausea, and vomiting. In some cases, a migraine can even lead to temporary vision loss in one or both eyes.
Migraines are broken down into two main types depending on whether they include “aura,” visual symptoms or sensations that precede or accompany the headache. Migraines with aura are known as “classical migraines,” while those without aura are called “common migraines.”
The exact cause of migraines remains unknown, but several factors contribute to them, including family history and environmental elements. Some of these environmental factors are known as “triggers” because they can bring on an acute attack.
A few of the most common migraine triggers are
Again, the most common symptom of migraine is a severe headache, usually characterized by intense throbbing or pulsating pain, and often occurring on one side of the head.
But people who suffer from migraines may experience a broad range of different symptoms, including
There are 2 main approaches to treatment. The first focuses on symptom relief during acute attacks, while the second takes preventive measures to reduce the frequency and intensity of the attacks.
When it comes to treating an acute attack, there are a few different options. These “abortive” treatments aim to stop the progression of the headache. They work best if you take them at the first sign migraine. While these treatments can help reduce or even eliminate symptoms, they don’t address the physiological process that leads to migraines—nor do abortive treatments prevent them from happening.
There are several over the counter (OTC) treatments that can help relieve acute symptoms. Most OTC meds specifically for migraines include analgesics, non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and caffeine. These meds usually contain aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Motrin), naproxen, or a combination of these medications.
Triptans are often used as a first-line prescription treatment. These migraine medications are vasoconstrictors, meaning that they help constrict blood vessels. They work by mirroring the effects of a chemical in the brain called serotonin, which interrupts the chain of neurological events that lead to a migraine. Triptans belong to a class of drugs called serotonin receptor agonists and they come in tablets, nasal sprays, and shots.
Migraines are sometimes accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Most of the time, treating the headache will also resolve nausea. But sometimes, the nausea is so severe that it may prevent you from taking an abortive treatment. Anti-nausea medication can help relieve these symptoms and make it possible to use your preferred acute treatment.
Finally, controlled substances like narcotics and barbiturates can be used to treat migraine headaches. These drugs usually contain combinations of narcotics, barbiturates, and NSAIDs. While they may be effective in treating symptoms, these medications are highly addictive and may result in drug dependency issues. GoMDUSA does not prescribe controlled substances as a treatment for any condition.
The other type of migraine treatment aims at reducing the intensity, duration, and frequency of the attacks. These options address the physiological progression that culminates in a migraine. As with any medication, there's a risk of side effects. For more information, please talk with a medical professional.
You might consider preventive treatments if you’re not responding well to acute treatment or if you suffer from chronic migraines. Your condition is considered “chronic” if your headaches occur 15 or more days a month for at least 3 months.
Tricyclic antidepressants can help with prevention. It’s believed that these drugs work by affecting chemicals in the brain, but the exact mechanism is unknown. A medicine called amitriptyline is most commonly used, but nortriptyline is another helpful option.
Some drugs taken to treat blood pressure are effective preventive treatments. These medications include beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and ACE inhibitors. These meds may reduce headaches’ frequency and severity by restricting blood flow in the brain and calming overexcited nerves.
Anti-seizure drugs have also proven effective in preventing migraines. These meds include divalproex (Depakene), valproate (Depakote), and topiramate (Topamax). Although the exact means of headache prevention is unknown, it’s believed that these meds work by calming overactive nerves.
Botox is FDA-approved for the treatment of chronic migraines. Botulinum toxin, the neurotoxin present in Botox, is administered as an injection. The toxin is injected around the nerves responsible for transmitting pain and works by paralyzing nerves and muscles. Once the injection has paralyzed the area, it effectively blocks the nerves from conducting pain signals for about 3 months. This treatment is typically performed in-office by a neurologist.
If you’re struggling with headaches, there is relief available. GoMDUSA can help by prescribing both acute and preventive migraine meds, as well as medications to help with nausea. Take this opportunity to get the information and medicine you need.
Talk with one of our in-house doctors or nurse practitioners about the meds we offer and get advice on the best option for your unique situation. We’re happy to provide information on the treatment options we offer.
The GoMDUSA migraine service includes the following drugs
If you are currently experiencing the worst headache of your life, this can be a life-threatening emergency. Please contact 911 immediately or go to your nearest emergency room or hospital.