Preventing and Treating Migraine Headaches

Migraine Headaches – Prevention and Treatment

Migraine headaches are vexing – they cause enormous disability worldwide.  We have all had typical headaches – yet migraine headaches are very severe and are accompanied by many other symptoms.  Those with chronic migraines suffer with them more than half the time, losing productivity and quality of life.  Hallmarks include “PIN” – photophobia (light sensitivity), incapacity, and nausea.  Some successfully prevent them with rigorous maintenance of healthy lifestyle practices and might take supplements including riboflavin, coenzyme Q10, 5-hydroxytriptophan, melatonin, Butterbur, and/or magnesium.

Past treatments included caffeine, anti-inflammatory medications, and ergot alkaloids – but there are newer treatments.  “Triptans” are medications that stimulate the serotonin receptors in the brain, decreasing inflammation and constricting blood vessels – with early signs of an impending migraine headache, these medications must be taken promptly to “abort” the headache.  Over the past year, a new classification of medications has become available.  Each is a subcutaneously injected monoclonal antibody-linked drug that targets the calcitonin gene receptor protein or the receptor itself, inhibiting vasodilatation (opening of brain blood vessels, worsening inflammation and pain).  These new drugs can reduce headache frequency by 4 or 5 headaches per month. Injections are given once monthly or quarterly.

Certainly, along with the medications described above, many integrative medicine approaches, including following the “6 Pillars of Wellness,” help migraine sufferers prevent headaches.  If you have migraines or know someone who does, assistance is available!