Migraine headaches is very, and overall. This is a disabling conditions associated with multiple symptoms. The mechanism of Migraines is thought to be associated with vasospasm of arteries in the brain. Depending on the artery, there are different symptoms such as Speech difficulties, irritability, visual disturbances, neck pain, Nausea and vomiting or rarely, loss of consciousness. The migraine mechanism continues with vasodilatation and release of substances such as CGRP. This results in severe headaches and pain. The patient may sometimes vomit or go to sleep to get relief.
Acute treatment for the headaches may include Acetaminophen, NSAIDs, Triptans, CGRP inhibitors, Butalbital
Preventative treatment for patients experiencing more than one severe disabling headaches per week may Involve avoided migraine triggers in the diet such as foods containing tyramine, nitrites, and sulfites. Medications used includesTricyclic agents such as Amitriptyline, Anticonvulsants such as Topiramate, Blood pressure meds such as beta blockers or calcium channel blockers, CGRP inhibitors or botulinum toxin.
Common side effects of triptans include:
Nausea, dizziness, flushing, tingling, neck pain, and chest tightness.
Serious side effects should be immediately reported to a medical professional including:
Chest pain, heart arrhythmias
Do NOT take triptans with any history of myocardial infarction, coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular accidents, hemiplegic migraines, uncontrolled hypertension, or peripheral vascular disease.
Source: Vivacare
Last updated : 2/10/2023