How to treat migraines

Written by Zhang Hui

Neurology

Updated on September 19, 2024

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Migraine is a very common type of headache clinically. Its treatment mainly includes the following aspects:

The first method involves giving patients some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory painkillers for treatment, which most patients find relieving. If the headache is severe and these drugs are not effective, then it is necessary to use some specific drugs, mainly ergot preparations.

Second, symptomatic treatment. Migraine patients are prone to complications such as nausea and vomiting, and can be treated with some antiemetic drugs.

Third, patients should rest in a quiet environment, avoid strong light and loud noises, and maintain a calm mood. Additionally, if migraines recur frequently, preventative treatment is recommended. The treatment plan mainly includes some calcium channel blockers and some β-blockers.

Other Voices

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Written by Yuan Jun Li

Neurology

1min 20sec

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How to relieve migraines and nausea

Migraine accompanied by nausea first requires analyzing the cause, followed by appropriate treatment. 1. If primary migraine is considered, oral medications like ibuprofen, indomethacin, and naproxen can be used, as well as acetaminophen or ergotamine caffeine. For severe vomiting, treatments such as vitamin B6 and metoclopramide can be administered to stop the vomiting. 2. If hypertension is the suspected cause, the main treatment is blood pressure regulation, typically using long-acting medications. Commonly used medications include amlodipine, irbesartan, candesartan, and valsartan. 3. If the cause is due to mental stress and high pressure, appropriate relaxation and stress reduction can provide relief. 4. It could also be related to organic brain lesions, such as a brain tumor. In such cases, a brain MRI should be considered to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment primarily involves surgery or radiation therapy. (Please follow medical advice when using medications.)

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Written by Zhang Hui

Neurology

48sec

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Migraine vertigo symptoms

There is a special type of migraine called vestibular migraine, where the main symptoms during an attack are significant dizziness, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and unsteady walking. A headache may or may not occur. This type of migraine-induced dizziness is relatively common in clinical practice, and patients generally experience severe dizziness, along with pale complexion and cold sweats among other clinical symptoms. The treatment for the dizziness caused by this type of migraine primarily follows the treatment protocols for migraine attacks, and may include taking certain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain medications. Additionally, administering calcium channel blockers and antiemetic medications can also achieve very good results. Furthermore, some sedative medications can also be used and can improve the patient's symptoms.

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Written by Feng Ying Shuai

Traditional Chinese Medicine

42sec

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Which part to massage for migraine?

Migraine is a clinical symptom where the patient perceives pain. Which areas should we massage? This depends on specific clinical symptoms of the patient. For example, if the pain occurs in the forehead, we would select acupuncture points on the forehead such as Yangbai and Zanzhu, including Sizhukong and Jingming. For distal points, we can choose Neiting to massage. Of course, if the pain is at the top of the head, we can select local points like Baihui and Tongtian, and choose Xingjian for distal points for massage. If the pain is on the sides of the head, we would select the wrist bone and Sizhukong, and then choose Waiguan for distal massage.

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Written by Feng Ying Shuai

Traditional Chinese Medicine

57sec

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Which area is moxibustion applied for migraines?

Migraines can be relieved through moxibustion by targeting specific acupoints to alleviate headache symptoms. Firstly, local acupoints can be selected; for migraines, you can use the Ah-Shi points, and also massage points such as the temples, Si Zhu Kong, Jiao Sun, Shuai Gu, and Feng Chi. Additionally, based on differential diagnosis, distant acupoints may be chosen. For instance, if the migraine is caused by external pathogens, add Feng Chi and Feng Fu points. If caused by phlegm and turbidity disturbances, add Feng Long and Zu San Li to clear phlegm and reduce turbidity. For migraines due to deficiency of qi and blood, add Qi Hai, Xue Hai, and Zu San Li to nourish yin and replenish qi, with the aim of treating deficiencies and alleviating pain.

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Written by Liu Yan Hao

Neurology

1min 1sec

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Can migraines be hereditary?

Migraines are not hereditary and are not considered genetic diseases. The onset of migraines is mainly associated with staying up late, fatigue, and the consumption of certain foods that can trigger migraines, such as foods containing nitrites. This includes pickled vegetables, overnight foods, leftover meals, and leftover vegetables, as these contain nitrites, which can trigger migraine attacks. Other triggers include certain dairy products and red wine. To reduce the frequency of migraine episodes, it is advisable to avoid these foods and not to stay up late. When a migraine attack occurs, temporary relief can be sought through oral painkillers. Regular scheduling and avoiding the aforementioned foods can significantly reduce the number of migraine episodes. Therefore, migraines are not hereditary and do not constitute a genetic disease. (Please use medication under the guidance of a professional physician, and do not self-medicate.)