migraines

Question 1

what are the symptoms of migraines?

Answer 1

photophobia (sensitivity to light)
phonophobia (sensitivity to sound)
nausea and vomiting.

Question 2

what may trigger a migraine?

Answer 2

Commonly described triggers include disturbed sleep, irregular or missed meals, excessive caffeine intake, lack of exercise, and menstruation

Question 3

what the some of the red flags for headaches?

Answer 3

• If the patient is vomiting and the oral route is restricted, refer to GP for alternative formulations
(SAME AS HEADACHES)
- no response to pain
- under 12 year
- last longer then 4 hours 
- neck stiffness
- blackout
- fever or rash associated
- recent head trauma

Question 4

lifestyle advice for migraine?

Answer 4

• Keeping a headache diary can be helpful in identifying triggers and monitoring the effectiveness of treatment.
• Avoidance of known triggers and lifestyle changes such as stress management, good sleep hygiene, adequate hydration, regular meals, exercise, and maintenance of a healthy weight can help.

Question 5

should codeine be used in migraines?

Answer 5

Preparations containing codeine are not routinely recommended to treat migraine and can
exacerbate symptoms in some cases.

Question 6

who should not use sumatriptan?

Answer 6

• With cardiovascular disorders including ischaemic heart disease, hypertension, previous myocardial infarction, coronary vasospasm, arrhythmias or peripheral vascular disease.
• With cerebrovascular disorders including previous transient ischaemic attack or cerebrovascular accident.
• With severe hepatic impairment.
• Concurrently with other triptans, monoamine oxidase inhibitors or ergotamine (or its
derivatives).

Question 7

who is cautioned to use sumatriptan?

Answer 7

• With risk factors for cardiovascular disease — cardiovascular assessment required prior to prescription.
• With a history of, or risk factors for, seizures.
• With renal or hepatic impairment — dose adjustment may be required.