Quick help for migraines

At least one in ten people in this country suffers from migraines. The causes are not yet fully understood. 
Scientists suspect that overactive nerves in the brain release various messenger substances which, among other things, lead to inflamed blood vessel walls.
The hammering pain is often one-sided, occurs in attacks and increases with exertion. 
Most migraine patients also feel nauseous and many are sensitive to light. Some see veils or blind spots - a so-called aura - before the pain begins. 
A migraine attack can last between a few hours and three days. 
Only a doctor can determine the type of headache beyond doubt. 
Migraine treatment is then possible both with prescribed medication and self-therapy with non-prescription medication from the pharmacy. 
As drug experts, pharmacists have in-depth knowledge of the active ingredients that effectively help with migraines. 
The selection of the right over-the-counter medication is tailored to the individual case in a personal consultation. 

For mild attacks

Mild to moderate migraine attacks are often helped by "normal painkillers" can often help. Experts speak of non-steroidal antirheumatics (NSAR).
Ibuprofen, paracetamol or even a combination of acetylsalicylic acid, paracetamol and caffeine have proven to be effective proven to be effective. 
It is important these painkillers at the first signs such as aura or emerging pain. 
Otherwise it is often not possible to effectively effective control of the migraine attack already too late.

For severe migraines

Triptans are the first choice, especially for people who suffer from moderate to severe attacks. Studies show that they help 60 to 90 percent of people.
Triptans combat pain at different points in the brain. For example, they block pain impulses. However, they also ensure that blood vessels that are dilated during a migraine contract again.
For this reason people with cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure are not usually allowed to take them. 
Triptans have different effects and duration and are well tolerated.
For acute migraine attacks, there are two two highly effective non-prescription non-prescription triptan preparations - naratriptan and almotriptan. 

Tips for taking triptans:

- Do not take triptans (unlike NSAIDs) during the aura phase. 
- The effect is best if the preparation is taken at the onset of a migraine headache. migraine headache begins. However, triptans also work even later.
- Triptans should not be taken more than three days in a row or not more than ten times a month. Otherwise the preparations themselves can trigger headaches.

Home remedies & Co

During an acute migraine attack, it has proven effective for sufferers to retreat to a quiet, darkened room. Cool migraine glasses and a few drops of peppermint oil on the temples can also 
on the temples can also help to relieve the pain. Appropriate suppositories from the pharmacy can combat nausea. To prevent a new attack, a consistent daily routine with regular meals and drinking enough can help.
Targeted relaxation methods and acupuncture also have a positive effect.

Source:© Apothekerverband Nordrhein e.V. in Kooperation mit der Avoxa – Mediengruppe Deutscher Apotheker GmbH