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.