Migraine Headaches and Remedial Measures

– Migraine is one of the most severe and common types of headache. It usually occurs on one side of the head, but can spread to the other side. It can also occur on both sides simultaneously. Although migraines can affect individuals of all ages, they are most common in people aged 20 to 50. Women are more prone to migraines due to hormonal changes during or before menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. Individuals with a family history of migraines have a higher risk of developing this condition.

– Your migraine condition may be classified as chronic if episodes occur on 15 or more days per month for over three consecutive months.

Symptoms of migraine

– The headache may initially present unilaterally before progressively spreading bilaterally, or it may affect both sides simultaneously. Associated symptoms—such as nausea, vomiting, photophobia, phonophobia, and heightened auditory or tactile sensitivity—frequently accompany the pain. Even light daily activities, such as walking, can exacerbate the discomfort.

– Certain individuals may experience an aura preceding or during a migraine attack. This is a transient sensory disturbance that gradually develops and subsides, typically lasting up to an hour, and may include:

• Seeing various shapes

• Vision changes / loss

• Tingling sensation in the hands and feet

• Seeing flashing and glaring spots of light

• Speech and language impairment (dysphasia)

Triggers of migraine attacks

There are several factors that can trigger a migraine attack. Including:

• Dietary Regimen: Prolonged fasting can trigger pain. Some individuals may experience migraines after consuming certain foods and beverages containing alcohol, monosodium glutamate (MSG), or caffeine.

• Environmental changes: Temperature, altitude, or weather changes can trigger a migraine

• Pharmacotherapy: Oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, and certain cardiovascular medications can exacerbate migraines

• Stress: Experiencing a period of stress, or relieving stress, can lead to migraines

• Exposure to sensory stimuli: Exposure to bright lights, strong odors, loud noises, or smoke can trigger migraine attacks

• Physical factor: Fatigue or overexertion can also contribute to triggering migraine attacks

• Changes in sleep: Sleeping too much or too little can lead to migraines. Jet lag can also trigger migraines in some people

• Hormonal changes in women: Before or during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause appear to be the cause of headaches in many women

Diagnosis and Management of Migraines

The onset of migraines varies from person to person and can last up to 72 hours if left untreated. Based on signs and symptoms, the doctor will provide a diagnosis upon examination. An appropriate treatment plan will then be prescribed for you.

You can also prevent and reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks by:

• Identify and avoid migraine triggers: Although migraines can occur even without any triggering factors, identifying and avoiding known triggers can reduce the frequency of migraine occurrences

• Use medications for acute attack management: Over-the-counter analgesics may be effective in reducing the intensity and duration of migraine attacks. You should take them as needed or as advised by your physician, as these medications may cause adverse effects

• Rest: Finding a quiet and dark room to rest at the onset of a migraine can reduce the intensity of the pain. It can be combined with medication to improve your symptoms

• Engage in regular physical exercise: Regular exercise reduces stress and muscle tension, contributing to reducing the frequency of migraines. In particular, moderate-intensity exercise such as walking, cycling… can be beneficial

• Maintain regular habits: Eating and sleeping on schedule can reduce the frequency of migraines

Although migraines can be severe and debilitating, an appropriate combination of tailored treatments can significantly enhance your quality of life. Fortunately, as you age, migraine episodes often become less frequent and less intense.

If you experience unusual, atypical, or unusually severe migraines, or if your headache suddenly worsens, you should seek consultation with a neurologist. The neurologist will perform advanced diagnostic evaluations to rule out other underlying causes of your pain.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Nguyen Tung Long – Internal Medicine Physician, Sante Hospital