FAQ's on Migraine

Q- What should migraine sufferers do?
Ans- Life-style modifications for migraine sufferers include:
Go to sleep and waking up at the same time each day.
Exercise regularly
Do not skip meals, and avoid prolonged fasting.
Limit stress through regular exercise and relaxation techniques.
Limit caffeine consumption to less than two caffeine-containing beverages a day.
Avoid bright or flashing lights and wearing sunglasses if sunlight is a trigger.
Identify and avoid foods that trigger headaches by keeping a headache and food diary. Review the diary with your doctor. It is impractical to adopt a diet that avoids all known migraine triggers, however, it is reasonable to avoid foods that consistently trigger migraine headaches.

Q- What are prophylactic medications for migraine headaches?
Ans- Prophylactic medications are medications taken daily to reduce the frequency and duration of migraine headaches. They are not taken once a headache has begun. There are several classes of prophylactic medications: beta blockers, calcium-channel blockers, tricyclic antidepressants, antiserotonin agents and anticonvulsants. Medications with the longest history of use are propranolol (Inderal), a beta blocker, and amitriptyline (Elavil), an antidepressant. When choosing a prophylactic medication for a patient the doctor takes into account the drug side effects, drug-drug interactions, and co-existing conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.

Q- Who should consider prophylactic medications to prevent migraine Headaches?
Ans- Not all migraine sufferers need prophylactic medications. Individuals who should consider prophylactic medications are those who:
Require abortive medications for migraine headaches more frequently than twice weekly.
Have two or more migraine headaches a month that do not respond readily to abortive medications.
Have migraine headaches that are interfering substantially with their quality of life and work.
Cannot take abortive medications because of heart disease, stroke, or pregnancy, or cannot tolerate abortive medications because of side effects.

Q- How effective are prophylactic medications?
Ans- Prophylactic medications can reduce the frequency and duration of migraine headaches but cannot be expected to eliminate migraine headaches completely. The success rate of most prophylactic medications is approximately 50%. Prophylactic medications usually are begun at a low dose that is increased slowly in order to minimize side effects. Individuals may not notice a reduction in the frequency, severity, or duration of their headaches for 2-3 months after starting treatment.