Migraine Flashcards
What is a migraine a common cause of?
Headache
How long does a migraine last?
4-72 hours
What are the triggers of a migraine?
- cheese, chocolate
- tiredness, stress
- alcohol
- combined oral contraceptive pill
- menstruation, menopause and pregnancy
- lights and noise
How does a migraine present?
- visual aura 6-60minuts
- unilateral throbbing headache
- photophobia and phonophobia
- nausea and vomiting
- irritability
What is a non-specific treatment of migraine?
Paracetamol
What is specific treatment for a migraine?
Sumatriptan (combine with paracetamol)
What can be given as prophylaxis for a migraine?
Topiramate
Propranolol
What is a complication of topiramate?
Teratogenic
What is a complication of Propranolol
Can’t be given to asthmatics
What are the main triggers for a migraine?
Chocolate
COC pill
What are the mian characteristics of a migraine?
- unilateral location
- pulsating quality
- moderate or severe pain intensity
- aggravation by or causing avoidance of routine physical activity (e.g., walking or climbing stairs)*
How many characteristics does someone need to present it for it to be classed as a migraine?
2 characteristics
What additional symptoms can occur during a migraine?
- nausea and/or vomiting
- photophobia and phonophobia
How many attacks does a person need to have for them to have migraines?
At least 5 attacks
How can migraine attacks occur in children?
Attacks are shorter-lasting
Headache is more commonly bilateral, Gastrointestinal disturbance is more prominent.
When does aura typically occur in someone with migraines?
Hours prior to the headache
What are the possible contraindications of prescribing a triptan for migraines?
Ischaemic heart disease
or
cerebrovascular disease
What is the main adverse effect of triptans?
‘triptan sensations’ - tingling, heat, tightness (e.g. throat and chest), heaviness, pressure
