Ask the Expert: Treat migraines at first warning signs

Q. What’s the difference between a migraine and a headache?

A. A migraine is a form of headache that is typically more severe and debilitating. A migraine often feels like a throbbing or pulsating pain, whereas a headache is usually just mild discomfort in the head. When someone has a migraine, they often are sensitive to light, sensitive to sound and can become nauseated. There are two types of migraines: one with aura beforehand and one without. An “aura” typically consists of seeing flashes of light, a perception of zigzag lines in a person’s field of vision, blind spots or a feeling of tingling in an arm or leg. These symptoms might be noticed about 15 to 30 minutes before pain begins. The migraines that have no aura begin without warning and the pain gradually builds up.

Q. How is a migraine treated?

A. Migraines can be treated at two different times: once the person develops a migraine or before they develop one. Both treatments are done with medications that relieve the symptoms, though outcomes are usually better when the migraine is treated as early as possible.

Some women can get severe migraines around their time of menstruation. These types of migraines can be helped with the use of hormones or birth control pills.

Q. When should I get medical help for migraines?

A. You can take over-the-counter, pain-relieving drugs once you experience the first signs or symptoms of a migraine. However, if you are taking over-the-counter medications for them more than eight times a month you should look into seeing your doctor about a prescription treatment. These medications are preventive in nature, sometimes taken daily, and serve to reduce the frequency and severity of the person’s migraines. Your doctor may also discuss medications to take at the first sign of a migraine. These medicines help eliminate the migraine or make the symptoms much more tolerable.

Q. What about alternative medicines or home remedies?

A. Any activity you find relaxing might lessen the effects of a migraine, such as taking a hot bath or sitting quietly in a darkened room. If you are experiencing chronic headache pain, some alternative remedies like massage or even acupuncture might provide relief. Ideally, you should consult a physician before beginning any alternative medicines.

Derrick Williams, MD, is board certified as an internal medicine physician and practices at CHS Health and Diagnostic Center of Yorktown. For more information, call (765) 759-4069 or send an e-mail to info@chsmail.org.
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