Migraines

Browse eMedTV's wide range of articles related to migraines including topics such as pregnancy and migraines, migraine diet, and work and migraines. Use the search box at the top-right corner of the page to find information about other health topics.

Description of Articles in Migraines

Migraines are the second most common headache syndrome in the United States after tension headaches. This eMedTV article takes a detailed look at migraine headache triggers, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.

This eMedTV article explains that while there are several different types of migraines, the most common types are migraine with aura and migraine without aura. This page covers some of the various types of migraines and how they differ from each other.

As this eMedTV page explains, the cause of migraine headaches could potentially be associated with blood flow changes in the brain, an imbalance of brain chemicals, or genetics. This page offers an overview of each of these possible migraine causes.

People with migraines often have a moderate-to-severe headache affecting one side of the body. This eMedTV page describes other common migraine symptoms (like a lack of appetite), as well as the "auras" some people have before their migraines start.

Migraine triggers are physical, psychological, and environmental factors that can cause migraine headaches. This eMedTV segment offers a list of common triggers of migraine headaches, such as stress, anxiety, and bright light or loud noise.

There are only a small number of people who have migraines that are triggered only by food. This eMedTV segment lists various migraine food triggers and explains how to determine if they are causing a migraine attack for you.

This eMedTV page describes tests that a healthcare provider may use to make a migraines diagnosis, such as a physical exam, MRIs, and CT scans. This page also lists some of the conditions besides migraines that can cause headaches (such as sinusitis).

Various classes of drugs can provide migraine relief. This eMedTV article lists some of these drugs, as well as a number of alternative and complementary treatments that are also available (such as biofeedback, herbs, and vitamins).

This eMedTV page explains that, for most people, there is no special "migraine diet" that can decrease the chances of developing migraines. But this article describes dietary changes you can make if you have migraines that seem to be triggered by food.

Migraine medications are focused on relieving pain and preventing future migraine attacks. This page on the eMedTV site discusses the different migraine medications that are available, including triptans, NSAIDs, and caffeine.

Some people may experience as much benefit from acupuncture for migraines as those taking traditional drugs. This eMedTV page discusses the results of research studies on using acupuncture to treat migraines, including tips on finding a practitioner.

Biofeedback for migraines can be beneficial in teaching people how to control body function indicators. This eMedTV page explains how biofeedback for migraines can help you control factors like blood pressure, temperature, and brain waves.

Research involving feverfew for migraines has produced mixed results. This page on the eMedTV site discusses the results of these studies, as well as some possible side effects of feverfew and precautions to be aware of before taking it.

Migraine prevention starts with understanding triggers and removing yourself from stressful situations. This eMedTV article provides tips and suggestions for migraine prevention, such as which medications to take and how to reduce stress.

As this eMedTV page explains, 3 out of every 4 people with migraines are women -- and migraines in women tend to be more painful and longer-lasting. This page covers factors that can contribute to migraines in women (such as using oral contraceptives).

During pregnancy, migraine treatment may oftentimes be administered differently. This article from the eMedTV library offers precautions and tips for women who are handling both pregnancy and migraines.

Certain medical conditions can interfere with a person's work, and migraines can be one of them. This eMedTV page list things an employer can do to accommodate an employee with migraines (for example, changing the lighting in the employee's cubicle).

This eMedTV page explains the importance of keeping a migraine diary, a tool with which to document the frequency and severity of migraines, as well as the factors that may play a role in developing migraines. This article also provides a sample diary.

Learning how to better manage stress can be an integral part of preventing migraines. This eMedTV page explains various approaches to preventing and managing stress-related migraines, such as getting enough sleep and doing yoga or exercise.