Abstract

A REVIEW ON PROPHYLAXIS AND TREATMENT OF MIGRAINE

Konda Ravi Kumar*, R. Sridhar, S. Sai Ramya and S. Sowjanya

ABSTRACT

Migraine is a primary headache disorder characterized by recurrent headaches that are moderate to severe. Typically, the headaches affect one half of the head, are pulsating in nature, and last from two to 72 hours. Associated symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, sound, or smell.[1] The pain is generally made worse by physical activity. Up to one-third of people have an aura: typically a short period of visual disturbance which signals that the headache will soon occur. Occasionally, an aura can occur with little or no headache following it. Migraines are believed to be due to a mixture of environmental and genetic factors. About two-thirds of cases run in families. Changing hormone levels may also play a role, as migraines affect slightly more boys than girls before puberty and two to three times more women than men. The risk of migraines usually decreases during pregnancy. The underlying mechanisms are not fully known. Globally, approximately 15% of people are affected by migraines.[2] It most often starts at puberty and is worst during middle age. In some women they become less common following menopause.

Keywords: Migraine, pulsating headache, treatment, aura, neurology.