Let’s be honest, migraines are the drama queens of the headache world. They don’t just show up quietly and leave. No, they arrive with flashing lights, nausea, and a full-blown sensory rebellion. If you’ve ever had one, you know the struggle is real. And if you haven’t? Count your lucky stars and read on, because knowledge is power.
Not Just a Headache
Migraines affect over 8.5 million people in the UK — that’s like everyone in London suddenly deciding to lie down in a dark room with a cold compress. These aren’t your average tension headaches. They’re intense, throbbing, and often one-sided. Add in nausea, vomiting, and an aversion to light and sound, and you’ve got yourself a migraine.
Common Symptoms:
- Throbbing pain (usually on one side)
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Nausea and vomiting
- Visual disturbances (auras, zigzags, flashing lights)
Who Gets Them?
Migraines play favourites — and women are more likely to get picked. About 1 in 5 women and 1 in 15 men experience migraines, often starting before the age of 40. Hormones, stress, and lifestyle changes can all stir the pot.
What Sets Them Off?
Migraines are mysterious. Scientists believe they’re linked to temporary changes in brain blood vessels, but triggers vary wildly. Some common culprits include:
- Stress or anxiety
- Poor sleep or sudden routine changes
- Bright lights, loud noises, or strong smells
- Certain foods and alcohol
- Medications
- Bad posture (yes, slouching counts)
Types of Migraines
Because one type wasn’t dramatic enough, migraines come in three types:
|
Type |
Description |
|
Migraine with aura |
Visual or sensory warning signs before the pain |
|
Migraine without aura |
No warning, just straight into the storm |
|
Aura without headache |
All the weird visuals, none of the pain (still unsettling) |
How Long Do They Last?
Anywhere from 4 to 72 hours. That’s three days!
Treatment: Let’s Tame the Beast
There’s no one-size-fits-all cure, but there are plenty of options to help you fight back:
Symptom Relief:
Following a consultation with one of our pharmacists, we can carry out an assessment and, if suitable, offer a range of treatments such as:
- Paracetamol or aspirin (for mild cases)
- Triptans (like sumatriptan, eletriptan, frovatriptan, and more) which work by narrowing blood vessels in the brain
New Kid on the Block: Rimegepant (Vydura®)
This one’s a game-changer. Rimegepant is a fast-acting oral lyophilisate (fancy word for “melts on your tongue”) that treats AND prevents migraines. No water needed, no swallowing pills — just pop it on your tongue and let it do its thing.
Why We Love Rimegepant:
- Two-in-one: Treats attacks and prevents future ones
- No triptans: Great for those who can’t tolerate them
- Fast absorption: Works quickly
- Discreet: Easy to carry and use on the go
- Nausea-friendly: No swallowing required
Migraine vs. Headache: Know the Difference
|
Feature |
Headache |
Migraine |
|
Pain |
Dull, both sides |
Throbbing, often one side |
|
Duration |
Hours |
Up to 72 hours |
|
Extras |
None |
Nausea, vomiting, light/sound sensitivity |
Final Thoughts
Migraines might be dramatic, but you don’t have to suffer in silence. Whether you’re team triptan or curious about Rimegepant, there’s a treatment out there that can help you reclaim your day. Speak to your GP or pharmacist to find the best fit — and maybe keep a pair of sunglasses handy, just in case.
