Migraine Flashcards
1
Q
What are Migraines?
A
- Migraines are a complex neurological condition that causes headaches
2
Q
What are the types of Migraine?
A
- Migraine without Aura
- Migraine with Aura
- Silent Migraine (migraine with aura but without a headache)
- Hemiplegic Migraine
3
Q
What are the clinical features of a migraine?
A
- Last between 4/72 hours
- Moderate to severe intensity
- Pounding/ throbbing in nature
- Normally Unilateral
- Photophobia (discomfort with lights)
- Phonophobia (discomfort with loud noises)
- Aura
- Nausea and Vomiting
4
Q
What is an Aura?
A
- Visual Changes associated with migraines
- Sparks in Vision
- Blurring Vision
- Lines across Vision
- Loss of different visual fields
5
Q
What is a Hemiplegic Migraine?
A
- These can mimic a stroke
- Sudden/ gradual onset
- Hemiplegia ( unilateral weakness of the limbs)
- Ataxia
- Changes in Consciousness
6
Q
What are some of the Triggers for Migraines?
A
- Stress
- Bright lights
- Strong Smells
- Certain foods
- Dehydration
- Menstruation
- Abnormal sleep patterns
- Trauma
7
Q
What are the 5 stages of a Migraine?
A
- Premonitory/ Prodromal (3 days before the headache)
- Aura (lasting up to 60mins)
- Headache ( lasts 4/72 hours)
- Resolution stage (the headache fades away or is relieved by vomiting/ sleeping)
- Postdromal/ recovery phase
8
Q
What is the managment for a Migraine?
A
- Paracetamol
- Triptans
- NSAIDs
- Antiemetics (metoclopramide)
9
Q
How do Triptans work?
A
- They are 5HT receptor antagonists
- Act on Smooth muscles in arteries to cause vasoconstriction
- Peripheral pain receptors to inhibit activation of pain receptors
- Reduce neuronal activity in the CNS
10
Q
What would you give for Migraine Prophylaxis?
A
- Keep a headache diary to help identify the triggers
- Propanolol
- Topiramate
- Amitriptyline
- Acupuncture
- Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
11
Q
What do you do for migraines triggered around menstruation?
A
- NSAIDs (mefanamic acid)
- Triptans (frovatriptan/ zolmitriptan)
