Migraine headaches have plagued human beings since the time of ancient Rome. The pain of a classic migraine headache is so severe it brings shudders of dread to those who experience it. Many of history???s most notable artists and leaders were migraine sufferers; among them were Napoleon Bonaparte and Civil War Generals Robert E. Lee and Ulysses S. Grant. Surrealist author Lewis Carroll, who created the looking glass world of Alice in Wonderland, also suffered from legendary migraines with auras.

Migraines are severe, throbbing headaches with pain usually localized on one side of the head. A migraine can last from four to 72 hours, and often involves certain stages and characteristics. The ???classic??? migraine involves a visual ???aura.??? Some migraines include vomiting and extreme sensitivity to light.

The first stage is called the ???prodome??? phase, and brings on fatigue and irritability. This phase usually occurs 24 hours before onset of the aura phase. The aura is followed by a severe, punishing headache which is followed by a resolution phase of extreme exhaustion.

What hope is out there for people suffering from the crushing pain of migraines? Two kinds of therapies are indicated for migraines; preventive and abortive.

“Preventive,” which includes avoidance of certain triggers, like undue stress or red wine, is indicated for chronic migraine sufferers. Beta blocker drugs, like Inderal and Corard, affect serotonin in the brain and can prevent blood vessel dilation, which is associated with migraine pain. Tricyclic antidepressant medications are also effective in prevention of migraines; these include Elavil or Pamelor.

???Abortive??? therapy begins once the headache has started. Rest, massage and acupuncture are all recommended. Analgesic medications like Tylenol and Advil are effective for pain. For severe migraines, serotonin receptors like Zomig, Imitrex and Frova can be very effective, but should be limited due to serious side effects associated with use.

Whatever approach you take, rest is the most important migraine fix. While migraines can be extremely dibilitating, you just have to let it runs it’s course. However, if a migraine lasts more than 72 hours, then medical attention may be necessary.