Frank's Advice on Migraine
Monday, 01 February 2010 21:51
MIGRAINE is a type of headache combined with feeling sick or actually being sick. It can affect you at any time of life but is more frequent in women than men.
Sometimes you can tell that a migraine is going to happen and this usually manifests itself with disturbances of vision (flashes of light and shimmering), or numbness and tingling or problems with speech. This is referred to as the aura. The headache comes on after these symptoms. Obviously if you are getting these problems for the first time, you must call an ambulance as something serious could be happening.
The whole thing can be quite debilitating, with the patient having to lie down in a darkened room. You can also suffer depression and irritability both before and after an attack. As you can see, a migraine is quite different from a 'normal' headache.
The cause of migraine is thought to involve a change in brain chemicals, triggering an attack. This can be brought on by certain foods, or by low blood sugar, also flashing lights and any sort of stressful situation, depression or anxiety.
A leaflet can be obtained from your local Murray's pharmacy, detailing more information and you can of course ask your pharmacist for advice. Usually it is best if you see your doctor if you suspect you have developed migraine.
Treatment of migraine can take various forms as the nausea and/or sickness is a factor in choosing an effective medicine.
Painkillers can be effective, especially the soluble ones, as you can take these before the sickness comes on. They are absorbed very quickly and can be combined with anti-sickness drugs. Ask your Murray's pharmacist for the best option for you.
There are also drugs called Tryptans, available on prescription, with some for sale under the supervision of the pharmacist. These drugs work by interfering with a brain chemical, called 5HT, which is thought to be involved in migraine, so it is important to get advice from your Murray's pharmacist, as you may take the drug at the wrong time, unlike painkillers which you should take staright away. There are also medicines prescribed by your doctor which can help prevent migraine attacks.
Migraine in children can be debilitating, as it can be felt in the stomach (abdominal migraine), so obviously children with persistent tummy ache should be taken to the doctor.
There is lots more information on the subject of migraine at your local Murrays, so please do call into one of our branches.
