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When migraine attacks become more frequent, preventive methods can help keep them from reoccurring. Part of migraine prevention is to recognize the triggering factors that bring on the attacks. Once these factors have been determined, attempts should be made to eliminate them. Often, just small lifestyle changes can help. Adjustments to living habits and in diet may be enough to eliminate pain.
One way to identify triggering factors is to keep a headache diary. Noting any details that precede the attacks can help to reveal the factors that cause migraine attacks. It is also important to write down the type of food eaten, number of hours of sleep, weather changes, etc.
Drug therapy can be used if the attacks are frequent. Generally, medication is indicated when attacks occur more than twice a month and last more than 2 days. Treatment should be prescribed by a physician because each person requires individualized drug therapy.
The drugs most indicated for migraine prevention are:
- Beta blockers and calcium channel antagonists (block dilatation of blood vessels, the mechanism provoking the pain).
- Antiserotonin drugs (antagonists of serotonin receptors).
- Tricyclic antidepressants (if the migraine is caused by anxiety or other psychic factors).
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