These headaches are pulsating, typically one-sided, and associated withnausea, vomiting, and light/sound sensitivity.
Sometimes, anaura(reversible neurological symptoms) precedes the headache.
This article will review theestrogenand menstrual migraine connection and how menstrual migraine attacks can be treated and possibly prevented.
Verywell / Cindy Chung
Fluctuating estrogen levels also appear to play a role in migraine manifestation.
It’s characterized by low but stable estrogen levels, which is why migraine attacks usually diminish.
How declining or fluctuating estrogen levels provoke a migraine is not fully understood.
The functioning of these trigeminal nerve fibers may be sensitive to estrogen variations.
Another possible mechanism is that declining or erratic estrogen levels could cause a decrease inserotoninlevels.
What Are Triptans?
Triptans are a class of prescription drugs that target serotonin docking sites in the brain.
They work to disrupt the release of inflammatory chemicals and proteins that cause migraines.
Can You Prevent Menstrual Migraines?
There are two medication approaches to preventing menstrual migraines: short- and long-term prevention strategies.
Short-Term Preventive Medications
Short-term preventive medications can be used in people with regular, predictable menstrual cycles.
Those who experience migraine attacks outside their menstrual period may also benefit.
One long-term migraine preventive strategy is takingcombination birth control pillscontinuously (with no break for menstrual flow).
Another long-term preventive strategy for menstrual migraines is taking adaily nonhormonal preventive drug.
There are several types of migraine preventive drugs.
Keeping amigraine diaryis a helpful strategy for identifying personal migraine triggers.
How Long Do Menstrual Migraines Last?
Migraine attacks last between four and 72 hours.
However, menstrual migraines sometimes last beyond three days, another aspect of their disabling nature.
Moreover, see a healthcare provider if you are pregnant, postpartum, or breastfeeding.
You may need to change your migraine medication.
A provider will also want to rule out other causes of your headaches.
Link Between Menstrual Migraine and PMDD?
Summary
Menstrual migraine is a subtype that occurs around a person’s menstrual period.
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