5 Things About Migraine That Really Hurt

Migraine is a primary headache disorder that affects over 1 billion worldwide. But despite its prevalence, there are few treatment options, each with adverse effects and contraindications. Single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (sTMS)-a novel nonpharmacologic, well-tolerated, and safe therapy-has shown promise for the treatment of migraine. sTMS may be effective as not only an acute treatment option, but also a preventive option.More details here.

Bell palsy often is considered a benign condition that usually resolves within 2 weeks. More severe cases may require physical therapy or corticosteroids to reduce swelling and inflammation. The disorder affects between 11 and 40 per 100,000 persons each year. Some research suggests the condition may be triggered by a viral infection that causes facial nerves to swell. Bell palsy has been associated with ischemia in some cases, particularly among older patients who have risk factors for vascular disease.More details here.

Butterbur, a popular over-the-counter nutraceutical used for the prevention of migraine, has been associated with serious safety concerns. Butterbur extract has been shown to contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, a toxic substance that causes hepatoxicity in humans and has been shown to be mutagenic and carcinogenic in animal studies. Despite butterbur’s potential efficacy, doubts are increasing about its long-term safety given of the risk of liver damage and the lack of an actively regulated preparation.More details here.

Recent guidelines seek to reduce the use of neuroimaging for patients with headaches to limit the use of unnecessary and costly medical tests. Reducing neuroimaging tests for patients with headaches runs the risk of missing or delaying the diagnosis of brain tumors. Early diagnosis of brain tumors allows prompt treatment before more severe symptoms, reduced performance status, and worsened outcomes. More details here.

An updated assessment of the most effective medications for acute migraine will form the basis of new treatment guidelines provided by the American Headache Society. Researchers noted that clinicians must consider medication efficacy, potential adverse effects, and possible medication-related adverse events when prescribing acute medications for migraine. The assessment does not provide guidance for long-term migraine management, including issues such as adverse events and medication-overuse headache.More details here.