La migraine It is an extremely intense and debilitating type of headache that can significantly affect the quality of life of those who suffer from it. Its origin is neurological in nature, and it is characterized by a variety of symptoms that vary between patients.
What is migraine and what are its main characteristics?
Migraine is distinguished from other headaches by its intensity and characteristics. It is often accompanied by symptoms such as:
- Unilateral pain: In many cases, it affects only one side of the head.
- Nausea and vomiting: These are common symptoms associated with migraine episodes.
- Photophobia and phonophobia: Extreme sensitivity to light and sound.
- Intensification with movement: The pain may be aggravated by any physical activity.
These symptoms may last from a few hours to several days. The frequency and duration of episodes vary significantly among patients.
Who is more likely to suffer from migraines?
Migraine is often hereditary, as it occurs more frequently in families. It usually appears during adolescence and affects women more than men, especially between the ages of 15 and 45. Recent studies indicate that migraines may even begin during childhood or, in some cases, from the womb.
With age, the frequency of migraine episodes tends to decrease, offering some hope to those who suffer from this chronic disorder.
Migraine triggers and prevention
Identifying and avoiding migraine triggers is key to reducing the frequency and intensity of attacks. Some of the common factors that can trigger migraines include:
- Stress: Situations of emotional stress can trigger an episode.
- Disturbance of sleep patterns: Sleeping too much or too little can be harmful.
- Food and drinks: Some foods such as chocolate, aged cheese, alcohol or processed foods can be triggers.
- Sensory stimuli: Bright lights, loud noises and intense smells.
In addition, adopt Healthy Habits can be key in prevention. These include:
- Eat at regular intervals: Maintaining a balanced diet and avoiding prolonged fasting can prevent low blood sugar levels that contribute to triggering migraines.
- Drink enough water: Dehydration can play a major role in the onset of migraines. Staying hydrated is essential, especially when exercising or consuming alcohol.
- Increase magnesium intake: This mineral helps prevent migraines by improving blood flow to the brain. Magnesium-rich foods such as whole grains, nuts, and green leafy vegetables, or even supplements, may be beneficial.
Diagnosis of migraine
Diagnosing migraine can be challenging due to the variable symptoms among patients. Typically, a neurologist makes a diagnosis based on the patient's medical history, symptoms, and a physical exam.
In complex or unusual cases, additional tests may be performed such as:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): To rule out tumors, strokes, or other neurological conditions.
- Computed Tomography (CT): To detect abnormalities in the brain.
Treatment of migraine
Migraine treatment is divided into two main categories: symptomatic approach and preventive measures.
Symptomatic treatment
The goal is to relieve pain during migraine episodes. Among the most commonly used medications are:
- Analgesics: Aspirin and ibuprofen are usually effective for mild to moderate pain.
- Triptans: Specific migraine medications that block pain pathways in the brain.
- Antiemetics: Useful for treating nausea and vomiting during episodes.
Preventive treatment
It is recommended for patients with frequent or severe episodes. Treatments include:
- Beta blockers: They reduce the frequency of migraines.
- Tricyclic antidepressants: Amitriptyline is one of the most commonly used.
- Anticonvulsants: Like topiramate.
- Botox injections: Especially for patients with chronic migraine. For a more detailed analysis on this treatment, you can consult the article on botox against chronic migraine.
- Monoclonal antibodies: Newer drugs that act on calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP).
Lifestyle for migraine management
In addition to medical treatment, perform Changes in lifestyle helps manage migraine:
- Maintain a consistent routine: Regular sleeping, eating and exercise habits are crucial.
- Practice relaxation techniques: Yoga, meditation and breathing exercises can reduce stress.
- Avoid triggers: Keeping a journal to identify what triggers your migraines can be very helpful.
Alternative medicine
Some non-traditional therapies may relieve symptoms or reduce their frequency:
- Acupuncture: Studies suggest that it may be effective in treating migraines.
- Supplements: Magnesium, riboflavin and coenzyme Q10 have shown benefits in certain cases.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy: Helps change thought patterns related to stress and pain.
Migraine is a complex disease that requires a multidimensional approach. The combination of Healthy Habits, proper diagnosis and personalized treatment can significantly improve the quality of life of those who suffer from it. For those looking for more information on how to prevent and treat migraines, you can review this Article on the prevention and treatment of migraines.
