Migraine Treatment – Diagnosis, Symptoms, Types and Remedies
Migraine Diagnosis Effective migraine treatment is based on the proper diagnosis of the condition. Your neurologist may treat you for migraine pain based on the following factors such as: If you are experiencing the common migraine symptoms. There is a history of migraines in your family. Your medical history. Physical examination. Neurological study. Your doctor may order an MRI, X-ray, or CT scan to rule out other medical conditions such as a tumor, strokes, brain infections, or other neurological disorders for your pain.
What are the Migraine Symptoms?
Migraine symptoms can occur before the pain sets in, during the migraine, or even after the pain goes away. The symptoms generally come in four stages: Prodrome is the early signs that warn you of an incoming migraine attack. Aura or visual symptoms. The attack-phase symptoms which you experience during the onset of the pain. The post-drome symptoms. They occur after the migraine attack is over.
Types of Migraine Pain Brainstem Aura Migraine Brainstem aura formerly known as basilar migraine comes with the aura symptoms. This may occur due to limited blood flow in the brain. Symptoms include: Vertigo or feeling of dizziness. Blurred vision. Difficulty in speech.
Chronic Migraines Chronic migraines can occur every other day and are more frequent. Usually, they occur for 15 days in a month.
Menstrual Migraines Menstrual migraines usually occur before menstruation starts or during the menstrual cycle. They are generally without any aura symptoms and are related to the menstruation cycle.
Medications for Migraine Treatment Migraines cannot be cured completely. There are medications that can control the symptoms and give relief. Medications for migraine are of two types: Abortive medications These medications are used to stop migraine pain once it starts. They are generally taken if you are experiencing symptoms like nausea or dizziness along with acute headaches. Abortive medications are available as oral pills, nasal spray, or skin patch. Preventive Medications Preventive medications are prescribed when you have long-lasting frequent migraines or do not respond well to abortive medications. These medications are aimed to control your symptoms and reduce the severity of your migraine attacks.
Blood pressure medications: Medications that are used to lower blood pressure can be used for controlling migraines. Beta-blockers like metoprolol tartrate, propranolol, timolol and calcium channel blockers like verapamil can be used to control migraines.