Migraine
How is a migraine different from a headache?
It can be difficult to distinguish between a bad headache and a migraine and diagnosis can be missed because migraine sufferers experience a wide range of symptoms. Migraine pain usually affects only one side of the head, but for many people the pain is not the most disturbing symptom - it is the nausea and disorientation that accompanies a migraine that causes the most discomfort.What causes migraine?
Migraines are thought to be caused by changes in the level of certain chemicals in the blood. This causes first constriction, then a widening and swelling of the blood vessels in the head. These changes give rise to a variety of symptoms, from an initial period of light-headedness and visual disturbance through to later stages when nausea, vomiting and extreme tiredness are typical. Certain trigger factors are often recognised; usually a combination of factors that will initiate a migraine attack. If you are a regular migraine sufferer then you will probably know what some of the triggers are. Common triggers include stress, changing sleep patterns, lack of food, particular food or drink (e.g. red wine, cheese, chocolate), smoking, hormonal changes, tension, exercise or travel, too much heat, cold, light or noise, allergic reactions.How can I avoid getting a migraine?
Try to identify your own personal trigger factors. Keeping a headache diary will help you to identify things you did or ate just before an attack. Make a note of when you feel stressed or worried, what you eat or drink and what exercise you take. Unfortunately you can’t always predict an attack, so keep a supply of your preferred headache treatment handy in your handbag, briefcase or medicine cabinet.Which painkillers are effective for migraine?
There is a wide range of treatments available for migraine, some you can buy in a pharmacy and some are available only on prescription from your doctor. Painkillers containing ibuprofen (the active ingredient of Nurofen), aspirin or paracetamol are often effective in treating the pain associated with migraine.Stronger painkillers are available containing codeine, for example Nurofen Plus combines ibuprofen and codeine. Migraleve pink tablets contain Buclizine, which helps to reduce the nausea sometimes suffered during migraine attacks, as well as paracetamol and codeine.To view the full range of painkillers available from Pharmacy2U Click here
When should a painkiller be taken?
The moment you feel the first twinges of discomfort. Painkillers work best if they are taken at the onset of the pain.What else should I know about taking painkillers?
Always read the label carefully, to ensure the product is suitable for your use.Don’t take more than the recommended dose.
Remember that many medicines, especially cold and flu remedies contain pain-relieving ingredients. So when using more than one type of product you should monitor your intake carefully.
You should not use ibuprofen if you have ever had a stomach ulcer, or are allergic to it or to aspirin. If you are allergic to or taking any other painkiller, pregnant, or suffer from asthma speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking ibuprofen.
If in doubt about a product’s suitability for you, ask the pharmacist for advice.
When should I consult my doctor?
Up to 70% of people who suffer from migraine do not consult a doctor. This low consultation rate reflects the widespread use of OTC medication to treat migraine attacks. However, in the following circumstances, it is important that you do consult with a doctor:If you have suddenly developed bad migraines
If your migraines are particularly severe, frequent or unfamiliar
If you develop migraines, or the nature of your symptoms changes (for example, an aura develops, where previously there wasn’t one, numbness of fingers or lips) after starting on the oral contraceptive pill
If you think your migraine is connected to a blow or injury
Nurofen contains Ibuprofen. Always read the label.
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All content of this web site is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice; rather it is designed to support, not replace, the relationship between you and your healthcare providers. You should make sure that you carefully read all product packaging and labels prior to use. If you have, or suspect you may have, a health problem you should consult your doctor. Please consult your doctor before taking any new product, particularly if you are already under medical care. For more information view our Terms & Conditions © Pharmacy2U Ltd 2000 - 2007.
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