A migraine headache is a type of headache that has many different forms.  Eye problems, sinusitis or allergies do not cause migraine headaches.

General information:

• There is no "cure" for migraines.  The treatment is to reduce the number and severity of attacks (headaches).  It also helps to identify triggers that lead to migraines and to set a normal daily routine with enough rest, activity and balanced diet.
• Migraines are not dangerous, even if you feeling bad from the headache or are vomiting.  With no treatment, the headache will go away on its own.
• Most attacks last less than one day.  Some may go on for several days.
• Tests such as CT scans, MRI and blood tests are not needed with typical headache histories and a normal examination.  If you are having other symptoms or are getting worse, the doctor may order additional tests.

Triggers of migraine headaches:

• Getting too much or too little sleep.
• Skipping meals, especially breakfast.
• Having to think or physically work really hard.
• Overworking or a daily schedule that is too busy so there's not enough time to rest.
• After a period of excitement, stress or exertion.
• Certain chemicals in foods such as nuts, cheese, lunchmeats, and chocolate.
• Caffeine can both cause and treat migraines.
• Changes in weather.
• Common life stresses such as a new school, changes in home.
• Keeping a diary of all foods and drinks eaten, sleep habits, and other triggers above linked to headache symptoms can help identify which things trigger your migraines.

Treatment plan for migraine headache management strategy should include:

• Lifestyle adjustments to prevent headaches.
• How to deal with acute attacks.
• How to handle acute attacks that do not respond to first line medication treatment or therapy.

What to do if you have a migraine headache:

1. Try to take a nap in a quiet (possibly dark) place.  Sleep will usually relieve the migraine.
2. Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.  These may help if given early before nausea occurs.  Be sure to read the package instructions for the amount to take based on your age and weight.
3. Your doctor may prescribe medication for nausea (such as Phenergan or Reglan).  These medications may be taken by mouth or suppository.  These may help the pain medication be better absorbed, stop the nausea and help you get to sleep.
4. Your doctor may prescribe medication specifically for a migraine, such as Imitrex, Amerge, Zomig, Maxalt, Frova, Midrin or Migranol.  These medications may be taken as a tablet, nasal spray or shot.  Use as directed if the migraine does not respond to simple measures such as sleep.

General information:

• Using a headache calendar is very helpful to you and your doctor.  It lets the doctor know the pattern of the headaches (how often, how severe), what medication you took and whether or not the medication works.  It can also identify triggers, which you can then avoid to prevent another attack.
• Things to note on the headache calendar include:
  • Time headache started.
  • What the headache felt like and where it hurt.
  • Medication that you took (name of medication, the time it was taken and how much medication was taken).
  • When the headache went away.
  • Foods and drinks eaten/drunk.
  • Amount of sleep nightly.
  • Activity you are doing when the pain starts.
  • Noises present when the pain starts.
  • Anything you might think triggered the pain.
• Be sure to bring the headache calendar with you to your doctor's appointment. Also, have it to refer to when you talk to your doctor or nurse over the telephone.
• Your teachers (and school nurse) need to be aware of your headaches and treatment plan.  Let the doctor know if he needs to write a note for you to receive medication at school.
• Using too much pain reliever can trigger rebound headaches and cause preventive medications to not work.  Be sure to tell your doctor about all medications that you take, even non-prescription medication.
• Learning stress management and relaxation techniques may help with your headaches.  Talk with your doctor about these techniques.