Migraine
Migraine Causes
Migraines can be caused by functional changes in the trigeminal nerve system, a major pain pathway in your nervous system, and by imbalances in brain chemicals, including serotonin, which plays a regulatory role for pain messages going through this pathway.
Migraine Definition
A migraine can be disabling with symptoms so severe, all you think about is finding a dark, quiet place to lie down. Up to 17 percent of women and 6 percent of men are experiencing migraine.
Migraine Diagnosis
If the headaches are unusual, severe or sudden, your doctor may recommend a variety of tests to rule out other possible causes for your pain.
Migraine Symptoms and Signs
A typical migraine attack produces some or all of these signs and symptoms: Moderate to severe pain, which may be confined to one side of the head or may affect both sides, Head pain with a pulsating or throbbing quality, Pain that worsens with physical activity, Pain that interferes with your regular activities, Nausea with or without vomiting, Sensitivity to light and sound.
Migraine Treatment
Medications used to combat migraines fall into two broad categories: Pain-relieving medications also known as acute or abortive treatment, these types of drugs are taken during migraine attacks and are designed to stop symptoms that have already begun. Preventive medications a type of drugs are taken regularly, often on a daily basis, to reduce the severity or frequency of migraines.
Drugs used for treatment of Migraine
Depakote
Imitrex
Imitrex Nasal Spray
Inderal
Maxalt
Topamax