By Martha Robert

A migraine is a throbbing painful headache, usually on one side of the head, that is often initiated or “triggered” by specific compounds or situations (environment, stress, hormones, and many others). They occur more often in women (75%, approximately) and may affect a person’s ability to do common tasks.

Preventive medicines
If your migraines are frequent and severe, your doctor may prescribe medication(s) to lessen the frequency or to prevent the headaches. Medicines that are used in this manner include Timolol (Blocadren), divalproex sodium (Depakote), propranolol (Inderal), and topiramate (Topamax), although the drugs were designed to reduce hypertension or prevent seizures.

Biofeedback
Other methods that may reduce or prevent migraines include biofeedback techniques to reduce migraine triggers like stress and early symptoms such as muscle tension.

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Acupuncture
Although studies on acupuncture are not definitive, some patients may respond well to this Chinese method of inserting needles into specific body locations to reduce or stop pain. Because the results are so variable, some doctors do not recommend this treatment; but because some patients benefit, it is another treatment method to consider.

An advantage of aging
The peak intensity and frequency of migraines occur between ages of about 20 to 60 years of age. As you age past 60, migraine intensity and frequency decrease and in some patients, migraines cease.

When you need quick care
Most people know the pattern of their migraines (triggers, auras, and pain intensity). However, new headaches, in people with or without a migraine history, that last about 2 or more days should be checked by a doctor. However, if a headache develops with other symptoms such as fever, stiff neck, confusion, or paralysis, the person or their relative, friend, or caretaker should be examined emergently.

Migraine symptoms
Migraine symptoms, throbbing pain, usually on one side of a person’s head, can be intense enough to cause a person to be unable to do simple tasks or to work. The headache pain may radiate toward the eyes, forehead, or temple and make a person develop nausea, vomiting, vision problems, and sensitivity to normal light or mild exertion.