Diagnosis and treatment of migraine.

Mayo Clin Proc

Headache Care Center, Primary Care Network, Springfield, MO 65804, USA.

Published: March 2002

AI Article Synopsis

  • Despite advances in migraine understanding, there is still significant uncertainty in diagnosis and treatment, leading to underdiagnosis and undertreatment.
  • Individualized treatment strategies that involve patient education and participation, in combination with effective pharmacological options, are essential for managing migraines.
  • Though triptans are more effective for symptom relief, they are underused, while newer anticonvulsant drugs complement traditional treatments for preventive care.

Article Abstract

Despite recent advances in understanding the pathophysiology and treatment of migraine, considerable uncertainty remains surrounding the diagnosis and treatment of this disorder. This uncertainty is reflected in studies that show both underdiagnosis and undertreatment of migraine. While the diagnosis can be assisted by criteria from the International Headache Society, other approaches may be useful in clinical practice. Treatment of migraine must be based on an individualized patient strategy that integrates education, patient participation, and effective use of pharmacological interventions. Many patients, despite self-treatment with simple analgesics, continue to suffer considerable disability associated with their migraines. Triptans, which are more effective at relieving migraine symptoms and maintaining patient function than are nonspecific therapies, are used in only a minority of patients with migraine. Treatment goals of rapid, complete relief with no recurrence and minimal adverse effects can be achieved when effective therapy is matched to individual patient goals. For prophylaxis, anticonvulsant drugs emerging as effective options are being added to the armamentarium with traditional compounds such as tricyclic antidepressants and beta-blockers.

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Source
http://dx.doi.org/10.4065/77.3.255DOI Listing

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