Migraines consist of four phases, prodrome or symptom onset, aura, headache and postdrome or recovery, according to the International Headache Society. Auditory and visual disturbances are characteristic of the aura phase. Most home remedies focus on removing environmental triggers; however, this treatment option may not be feasible if triggers include physiological aspects or common environmental conditions, such as sunlight. In this case, medicinal treatment options are available and include over-the counter medications, epilepsy medication, anti-depressants and beta-blockers.
Over-the-counter Medications Effects
Most over-the counter treatment medicines focus on pain relief. Caffeine is a common additive to pain medications, since it has the ability to stimulate the nervous system and aid uptake of pain relievers. Caffeine, however, has the ability to induce rebound migraines in many people, according to the National Migraine Foundation. If you experience migraines, you should be conscious of the amount of dietary caffeine you consume. Pain medication overuse may lead to resistance that produces more frequent and severe migraines. This cyclic process will continue until you discontinue use.
Epilepsy Medication Effects
A few seizure medications have been approved for use to prevent migraines. The Mayo Clinic indicates that Topamax is a common migraine preventative. Since all seizure medications must be taken daily and are cost-prohibitive, migraines must be severe and occur at high frequency to consider this possibility. Topamax is the typical migraine preventative prescribed and has few side effects. Dizziness, nausea, fatigue and weight loss are the most common side effects. Occasionally, the Epilepsy Therapy Project indicates, kidney stones, acidosis and glaucoma are possible.
Antidepressant Effects
There are several side effects to antidepressants. Nausea is the most common side effect. The Mayo Clinic recommends consuming small meals four to five times a day to prevent this overwhelming feeling. Unfortunately, eating many smaller meals may cause other typical effects, which includes weight gain and increased appetite. Sexual dysfunction is an atypical side effect that managing your antidepressant dose may correct. Insomnia or fatigue, dry mouth, blurred vision and constipation are infrequently encountered and may be controlled through life-style changes.
Beta-blocker Effects
There are several severe side effects to beta-blockers that mimic heart failure according to the Texas Heart Institute. For example, shortness of breath, weakness in extremities and excessive fatigue are typical side effects. Depression, constipation and impotence are possible but rarely reported.
