Many people with migraine use both acute andpreventive treatments.
Illustration by Brianna Gilmartin, Verywell
How Are Migraines Treated?
Migraines are treated with a number of different therapies.
Illustration by Brianna Gilmartin, Verywell
Migraine medications can stop migraine symptoms during the episodes.
Other treatmentswhich include lifestyle strategies, medical interventions, or medicationsare helpful for preventing migraine episodes.
Treatments for migraine symptoms can include at-home care, such as using an ice pack or avoiding bright lights.
Everybody who experiences migraines can benefit from paying attention to contributing lifestyle factors and avoiding triggers.
Medications to Prevent a Migraine
Migraine preventionis an important aspect of living with this condition.
Recurrence is a characteristic of migraines.
Certain lifestyle strategies and medical treatments are known to be effective at preventing repeated migraines.
When your migraines are too frequent, they can severely impact your quality of life.
This is when medical treatment for migraine prevention is needed.
Some medications to prevent migraine are taken on daily.
These medical therapies are available by prescription only.
Abortive Drugs for Migraines
The term abortive drugs describes migraine treatments that are used during an episode.
This is because they can abort (stop) the migraine attack.
Common acute migraine treatments include:
Each treatment category can have side effects, but they are usually mild.
These medications are also effective for treating migraines.
Antiemetics for migraines have pros and cons, and they are not used as often as other migraine treatments.
Because of their potential for dystonia, antiemetics are not typically prescribed for migraine treatment.
They are commonly given in a hospital setting.
Migraine Devices
Noninvasive deviceshave been approved for use in migraine treatment.
These are relatively new and are considered safe.
However, they might not always be covered by health insurance.
Ask your healthcare provider if a gear is worth purchasing.
Supplements may interact with other medications.
They may also be contraindicated (advised against) if you have certain underlying health problems.
Summary
Migraine treatment includes preventive strategies, as well as treatment for an acute migraine.
Preventive strategies include lifestyle modifications, devices, medication, and procedures.
Emergency treatments may include antiemetics or an injection of migraine-specific medication.
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