Migraines are throbbing headaches, usually on one side of the head. Visions of flashing lights, zigzag lines or even temporary blindness may occur before the start of an attack. The pain can last for a few hours or several days. Alcohol, certain foods, caffeine, strong odors, loud noises, glaring lights, or a change in hormones, weather or sleep patterns can trigger a migraine. The cause is unknown, although doctors believe it is an inherited brain disorder.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

• Severe headaches lasting for four to 72 hours
• Vision disturbances
• Sensitivity to light
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness
• Speech problems
• Confusion
• Weakness in the arms and legs
• Tingling in the face and hands

A word of caution: Talk to your doctor before taking any supplement or herb. You have no way of knowing if your herb or supplement interferes with a health condition you have or a medication you take. You do not know about the purity or quality of a supplement, and much of the research on these substances is scant and questionable. Also, supplements in high concentrations can be dangerous. Your doctor is the best person to talk with about your concerns.

Dietary modifications

Some foods, such as wine and chocolate, may trigger attacks. Speak with your doctor to find out if certain foods may be causing your migraines.

Conventional treatments

Aspirin, acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as Motrin®) and opiates may be used to treat migraines. Prescription treatments include ergotamine and a class of medications called triptans, which include sumatriptan, naratriptan, rizatriptan, zolmitriptan and almotriptan. If nausea and vomiting accompany the attack, you may have trouble keeping down a pill. Triptans are also sold as nasal sprays, inhalers, suppositories or injections. The triptans work better than other medications and have changed the lives of many people with migraines.

If migraine attacks happen often or are particularly disabling, daily medications can be taken to prevent an attack.

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External Sources National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine of the National Institutes of Health. Health Information. Accessed May 31, 2007. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine of the National Institutes of Health. What is CAM? Accessed May 31, 2007. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine of the National Institutes of Health. Dietary and Herbal Supplements. Accessed May 31, 2007.

This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.