Types of Migrane Headaches
Migraine headaches come in a variety of types including with aura, which are visual or sensory warnings, or without aura. An ocular migraine affects the blood vessels in the eyes and normally no pain is felt. An ophthalmoplegic migraine also affects the eye blood vessels, but pain is present. A basilar migraine affects the artery in the brain stem and children are more prone to this type of migraine. There are no cures for migraines, but medications can help with frequency and severity of these headaches.
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Causes
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There is no specific cause found for different types of migraines, but certain factors may contribute. Hormonal changes in women, lack of sleep, stress, cigarette smoke, bright flashing lights and physical exertion can influence migraine triggers. Foods and drinks such as chocolate, red wine, beer, coffee, salty foods and aged cheeses can also be triggers.
Symptoms
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Symptoms will vary depending upon what type of migraine you experience. The most common symptoms with all types of migraines are pain on one side or both sides of your head, pain that feels throbbing or pulsating, nausea, vomiting and pain that worsens with physical exertion. A migraine with aura will include changes in your vision and a feeling of needles stabbing your arm or leg.
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Medications
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With any type of migraine, you should start treatment at the first sign of pain. This may reduce the length and severity of the migraine. Anti-inflammatory drugs such as Advil or Excedrin Migraine can help relieve symptoms of a moderate migraine. Triptans such as Zomig and Amerge relieve pain, light sensitivity and nausea for severe migraines. Anti-nausea medications such as Mylanta may help relieve vomiting and nausea. Opiates are reserved as a last resort for severe migraine pain because of their risk of dependency.
Preventive Medications
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You may benefit from preventive medications if you suffer from two or more headaches a month. Beta blockers reduce blood pressure and reduce the severity of migraines. Calcium channel blockers such as Calan may prevent migraines and relieve symptoms of aura. Tricyclic antidepressants such as Pamelor affect brain chemicals and may reduce the number of migraines you have.
Home Remedies
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Self care measures can reduce the number and severity of all types of migraines. Listen to relaxation tapes or soothing music, relax in a nice warm bath, sit on the porch and enjoy nature or read a book. Get adequate sleep and go to bed and wake up at regular times. When you feel a migraine coming on, rest in a dark quiet room and place a cold wash cloth on the back of your neck. Keep a migraine diary and list any foods, drinks or activities that may trigger the headaches.
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