Migraine is one of the most common neurological disorders and is often confused with headache. A person with migraine suffers from severe headaches; constant pain and irritation can make the disorder unbearable.
About 1 in 7 people suffer from migraines, which are more commonly seen in women compared to men. Therefore, it is important to understand what a migraine is, its causes, symptoms and treatment.
What is a migraine?
Migraine is a neurological disorder characterized by intense headaches that can significantly disrupt daily life. It goes beyond a normal headache and often involves a throbbing pain, typically on one side of the head. best neurologist in patna
Migraine is a serious condition that can have a significant impact on an individual. They are classified as the third most common disease in the world and the sixth most disabling.
Headaches come in over 150 types, categorized as primary or secondary. Migraines belong to the group of primary headaches, which means they are not 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 a comprehensive medical examination and other tests.
Migraine types and symptoms:
There are several types of migraines:
- Migraine without aura: The most common type, characterized by moderate to severe throbbing pain on one side of the head,
- migraine with aura: This type involves visual disturbances or other sensory changes, such as seeing flashing lights, zigzagging lines, or tingling sensations before or during the headache phase.
- Chronic migraine: When a person experiences migraines 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 a 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 other less common subtypes, including abdominal migraine (mainly affecting children), ophthalmoplegic migraine, and others.
Migraine symptoms:
Migraine symptoms can vary from person to person, but commonly include:
Headache pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia) and sound (phonophobia)
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Fatigue and weakness
- Cognitive difficulties
- Mood swings
It is important to note that individuals may experience some or all of these symptoms and their intensity may vary from episode to episode.
Home Migraine Treatment Tips:
Home remedies that can provide migraine relief 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 such as 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.
- Place a cold or warm towel on your forehead or back of your neck.
- Identify and avoid triggers such as certain foods, stress or lack of sleep.
- Exercise regularly, manage stress and maintain a healthy lifestyle overall.
- Consult a healthcare professional for individual advice and treatment options.
Many times it is difficult to manage migraine symptoms at home. In order to avoid unnecessary suffering, it is advisable to seek the help of a doctor
Medical treatment for managing migraines
Over-the-counter pain relievers: Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin can help relieve mild to moderate migraines.
Triptans: Prescription drugs specifically designed to treat migraines by constricting blood vessels and blocking pain pathways in the brain.
Ergotamine derivatives: These drugs are effective in treating moderate to severe migraines and are available in various forms such as oral tablets or nasal sprays.
Anti-nausea medications: Medications such as metoclopramide or ondansetron can help manage the nausea and vomiting associated with migraines.
Preventive medications: If migraines are frequent or severe, a health care provider may prescribe preventive medications, such as beta-blockers, anticonvulsants, or antidepressants, to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks.
Botox injections: In some cases, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections into specific muscles of the head and neck can help prevent chronic migraines.
CGRP inhibitors: These newer drugs block the activity of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), a protein involved in migraine attacks.
Consultation with a healthcare professional is essential for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan for migraines. They can evaluate your specific symptoms and medical history and determine the best treatment options for you.
Conclusion
There are many new treatments for migraine, a common neurological disorder. However, it is necessary to consult the chief specialist doctor in Patna to know about the more effective treatment options available in the best neurologist in patna.
You can search for a general practitioner near me to find the best professional help.
Migraine is not a pain to be ignored, if someone in your family is suffering from constant headache and fatigue, book an appointment at Big Apollo Super Specialty Hospital, Patna