改善偏頭痛的方法

chronic headacheHeadaches can severely impact work and daily life, and this issue should not be ignored. Almost everyone has experienced headaches, with a variety of causes, including emotional factors such as stress and anxiety. Migraines are one of the most common types, belonging to primary headaches. During an attack, the pain is usually concentrated on one side of the temple, but may extend to both sides of the head or the back of the head. Patients experience intense, throbbing pain, gradually increasing in intensity. Neurologist Dr. Fong Ka-yeung points out that migraine symptoms are much more severe than ordinary headaches, leading to fatigue, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, blurred vision, and other problems. The pain can last from 4 to 72 hours. Approximately 12.51 million people in Hong Kong suffer from migraines, equivalent to nearly one million people affected. The 25-44 age group is the most affected, and women are three times more likely to experience migraines than men. Migraines can be divided into two types: occasional (attacks less than 14 days per month) and chronic (attacks more than 15 days per month, lasting at least 3 months). Dr. Fong urges patients to seek medical treatment as early as possible to avoid prolonged suffering.

Migraines can severely disrupt a patient's life, preventing them from working or living normally during an attack, and even affecting interpersonal relationships and mental health. Many patients choose to endure the pain or self-medicate with painkillers. Registered pharmacist Wang Minheng stated that headaches are the most common pain symptom found in community pharmacies, and common painkillers such as acetaminophen are readily available. For adults, the daily dosage should not exceed 4 grams (approximately 8 tablets of 500 mg), and unless specifically instructed by a doctor, it is not recommended to use it continuously for more than 10 days. Overuse can lead to serious consequences such as liver damage. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also cause gastrointestinal discomfort or cardiovascular problems. Patients often mistakenly believe that their painkillers are ineffective and increase the dosage themselves, which may actually worsen their condition. It is recommended that in such cases, patients seek medical attention promptly for evaluation and adjustment of the treatment plan by a professional physician.

Patients can perform a simple self-test: if multiple symptoms are present, they may have migraines and should seek medical attention as soon as possible. These symptoms include: frequent, severe headaches; headaches affecting daily activities or cognitive abilities; headaches lasting longer than 4 hours; headaches accompanied by nausea; and photophobia or phonophobia during headaches. Overuse of medication may lead to liver damage or even death.

For patients with severe migraines, doctors may prescribe vasoconstrictors such as sumatan and zolmitriptan, but these medications can cause side effects such as nausea. Currently, a new generation of preventative medications, CGRP antagonists, are available that prevent attacks by blocking the neurotransmitter CGRP, which triggers headaches. Studies show that after 64 weeks of continuous use, 26% patients can completely eliminate migraines. This subcutaneous injection only requires one injection per month, has fewer side effects than traditional medications, and some patients experience a 70% improvement in symptoms after just three injections.

While medication can reduce the intensity and frequency of migraine attacks, good lifestyle habits are equally important to prevent the condition from worsening. Dr. Fang points out that hormonal changes in women, lack of sleep, stress and anxiety, smoking, and weather changes can all trigger headaches. Certain foods, such as chocolate, cheese, MSG, and red wine, should also be avoided, as the tyrosine in these foods may cause headaches.VasoconstrictionIt can trigger headaches. It is recommended that patients create a comfortable living environment, such as keeping the room dimly lit, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, and engaging in moderate exercise. Soft music and gentle lighting can help relax the mind and body, and sufficient sleep is especially important for preventing headaches. Appropriate exercise can also effectively improve migraine problems.