Migraine with Aura
Alternate Names : Classical Migraine, Classic Migraine
What are the treatments for the disease?
Medicines used to relieve the symptoms of migraine with aura include:
barbiturate combinations, such as butalbital with caffeine and acetaminophen
ergot alkaloids and derivatives, such as ergotamine
isometheptene agents, with combinations of isometheptene
narcotic analgesics, such as codeine and butorphanol
pain medicines, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen
triptans or serotonin (5HT-1) receptor agonists, such as sumatriptan succinate
Alternative and complementary therapies for migraine with aura include:
acupuncture, a therapy used to relieve pain by inserting thin needles into certain parts of the body
aromatherapy, which uses oils to stimulate pleasant sensations and relieve stress
biofeedback, a process in which a person is taught how to relax when the body starts to show the signs of a headache
chiropractic, which involves manipulation of the spinal bones
cognitive-behavioral therapy, which helps a person change perceptions and behaviors related to the headache
exercise
herbal remedies
hypnosis, which uses suggestion to influence the person's subconscious
relaxation training, which reduces stress and eases emotional strain
stress management
transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS, which relieves pain by stimulating nerves
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Medicines used to treat migraine with aura may cause drowsiness, allergic reactions, or rebound headache. Rebound headaches are caused by regular use of pain medicines.
How is the disease monitored?
The individual may be asked to keep a headache diary to identify triggers and track the success of treatment. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.
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