Migraine

Migraine is one of the primary forms of headache. Migraine affects a significant part of the population; in adult age more women than men suffer from migraine. Migraine is not a life threatening disease, but it can significantly disturb patients' lives as an attack can unexpectedly restrict all daily life activities. The definition of migraine types can be found in the IHS (international Headache Society) classification. The causality of migraine is not yet completely understood, a disposition for migraine is probably genetically given. The progression of a migraine attack is fuelled by hypersensitivity of the trigeminovascular system, which contributes to the development of sterile inflammation around small arterioles. A nociceptive signalisation spreads from this region to sub-cortical and cortical brain centres, where appreciation of pain happens. Nowadays, we can achieve good treatment results in migraine patients. We can not only influence an acute migraine attack but also decrease the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks by prophylactic treatment. Analgetics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, ergotamine derivates and triptans are the most frequently used drugs for acute treatment. In prophylactic treatment, antiepileptics, antidepressants, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers and magnesium can be used. The goal of the prophylaxis is at least a 50% reduction in the intensity and frequency of attacks. A change in lifestyle/life regimen can in some cases bring relief for migraine patients.