Migraine headache is a common chronic neurological disorder prevalent among adolescents and young adults, typically diminishing after the age of 50. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), migraine is one of the leading causes of disability in young and middle-aged populations, severely impacting quality of life if not diagnosed and treated in a timely and proper manner. So, what exactly is a migraine headache, and how can it be effectively controlled?
1. What Is a Migraine Headache?
Migraine, also known as migraine syndrome, is a neurological condition characterized by recurrent episodes of severe, throbbing, or pulsating pain, typically localized to one side of the head. The pain is frequently accompanied by nausea, visual disturbances, and heightened sensitivity to light and sound.
2. What Causes Migraine Headaches?
Currently, medicine has not identified the exact cause of Migraine syndrome, but a number of factors below are considered to be related to migraines:
- Family history of migraines
- Gender: females suffer 3 times more than males.
- Use of certain medications that may worsen migraines
- Hormonal changes
- Stressful life events
- Sleep disorders
- Unscientific diet
- Weather changes
- Loud sounds, bright lights, strong scents.
3. Classification of Migraine Headaches
Based on the appearance of warning symptoms, Migraine is divided into two main groups:
Migraine with aura: accounts for about 10–25% of cases. Patients have warning symptoms about 24–48 hours before, and the headache will break out afterward.
Some special forms of Migraine with aura:
- Retinal Migraine
- Migraine with Brainstem Aura
- Hemiplegic Migraine
- Silent Migraine
Migraine without aura: accounts for about 75% of cases. Pain appears suddenly without warning signs, usually accompanied by nausea, vomiting, fear of light (photophobia), and fear of sound (phonophobia).
What Are the Symptoms of a Migraine Headache?
Patients may experience 4 stages in a Migraine headache episode:
Prodrome Stage (Early Symptoms)
Appears 24–48 hours before the pain, with autonomic nervous symptoms such as:
- Increased appetite or loss of appetite
- Mood changes, fatigue, easily irritable
- Excessive, uncontrollable yawning
- Thirst
Aura Stage
Takes place 10–60 minutes before the pain, usually lasting no more than one hour. Manifestations may include:
- Visual disturbances, difficulty speaking
- Numbness or tingling sensation in the hands and face
- Muscle weakness or abnormal sensations
Headache Stage
The headache stage lasts from a few hours to several days. Symptoms include:
- Severe pain on one side of the head and worsens when you move.
- Sensitivity to light, smells, sounds, movement, and touch.
- Confusion, blurred vision, dizziness, lightheadedness.
- Nausea, vomiting, or digestive disorders.
Postdrome Stage (After the Migraine)
Postdrome is the final stage of a Migraine headache episode. Postdrome can last for 24–48 hours after the migraine pain stops, including symptoms:
- Fatigue, reduced ability to concentrate
- Dizziness and mood changes
===> See more: SLEEP DISORDERS
5. Which Treatment Methods Are Effective?
Currently, Migraine does not have a method for complete cure. However, using medication and making a number of lifestyle changes can reduce the severity of migraines and prevent recurrence.
Managing Acute Pain:
- Taking a nap or resting in a dark, quiet room
- Placing a cold towel/compress on the painful area
- Drinking plenty of water, especially if the migraine includes vomiting
Short-term Migraine Treatment with Medication:
- Triptan drugs (Sumatriptan, Zolmitriptan) are the standard treatment for migraines. They increase serotonin levels in the brain.
- Ergot derivative drugs (ergotamine, dihydroergotamine), work best in the early stage of a migraine.
- CGRP inhibitors (Atogepant), block the activation of specific nerves in the brain related to pain.
- Over-the-counter drugs (painkillers such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen) can reduce pain from less severe migraines.
- Anti-nausea drugs (chlorpromazine, metoclopramide) can reduce discomfort caused by different types of headaches, including migraines.
Preventive Treatment:
- Supplementing essential micronutrients.
- Blood pressure lowering drugs, anti-epileptic drugs, anti-depressant drugs.
The use of medication needs to be prescribed and monitored by a doctor, avoiding arbitrary prolonged use.
6. Measures to Prevent Migraine Headaches
A number of non-drug measures to help prevent and reduce migraine attacks include:
- Staying away from environmental stimulating factors: noise, bright light, or certain scents
- Avoiding foods containing stimulants
- Managing stress, relaxation, meditation
- Practicing a healthy lifestyle: exercising, drinking enough water, getting enough sleep.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy, massage, or acupuncture
- Avoiding drug abuse and drugs that can worsen Migraine (for example, certain hormonal drugs)
7. Conclusion:
Migraine headache is a chronic pathology that can be well controlled if diagnosed and treated correctly. When the pain recurs many times or affects daily life and work, patients should go to a medical facility for examination and appropriate treatment consultation, avoiding arbitrary drug abuse.
===> See more: ANTIBIOTIC USE: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
References:
- BMJ Best Practice – Migraine headache in adults
- NIH – Migraine
- ICHD3- Phân loại rối loạn đau đầu, Hiệp hội Đau đầu Quốc tế.
Hong Anh Healthcare Group – A comprehensive and modern healthcare ecosystem being developed in Vietnam, takes pride in being a pioneer in establishing a network of family medicine clinics based on the UK healthcare model for the people of Vietnam. Our team of experienced doctors and medical staff consistently prioritizes preventive healthcare and medical examination needs. We are dedicated to providing high-quality, effective, professional, and compassionate medical services, ensuring holistic physical and mental well-being for all.
Hong Anh Healthcare Group: BRING HOPE TO LIFE