Optimal medicines use and lifestyle in migraine management and prevention

Abstract

The management of migraine yields the best results when lifestyle adjustments are made in conjunction with the use of acute and/or preventive treatments. Migraine remains a disabling condition. In a survey of 1614 migraineurs conducted by the Migraine Action Association in 2007, about 80% reported an attack at least once a month, and more than half of them reported having an attack every week. A range of options is available to migraineurs: diet and lifestyle adjustments, acute and preventive medication, as well as complementary therapies and other recent developments. The results of the Migraine Action Association's survey highlight how respondents experience current treatment methods, and to what extent they are aware of alternatives. The authors argue that through improved understanding about migraine and other headache types, and a better knowledge of the help and support available, migraine sufferers will be better equipped to manage this chronic and disabling lifelong condition.