Hormonal migraines, also known as menstrual migraines, occur when there are changes in a woman's oestrogen hormone levels. This typically occurs at the end of a woman's menstrual cycle, in the two to three days before menstruation occurs. This type of migraine is not associated with an aura in vision but does have the other characteristics typical of migraines including painful headache, sensitivity to light, feeling unwell, and sensitivity to sounds and sometimes smells. According to Migraine Trust.org about 10 percent of the menstruating female population suffers from hormonal headaches. If you believe you suffer from menstrual migraines, contact your doctor for treatment options.
Prevention
In order to recognize that migraines are hormone related, it is best to keep a diary detailing when migraines occur and what circumstances surround their occurrence. If migraines happen during the last week of the menstrual cycle, they are considered menstrual migraines. Knowledge of the pattern of occurrence allows the migraine sufferer to make a preemptive strike against their recurrence. According to Migraine Trust.org one can take anti-inflammatory painkillers in anticipation of a menstrual migraine occurrence to head them off. Triptans and ergotamine can also be used around the time of menstruation, according to the National Headache Foundation, to head off associated migraines. These medications are most effective if used twenty four to forty eight hours in advance of the anticipated migraine.
Pain Relief
During a hormonal migraine, anti-inflammatory pain killers are the most accepted form of treatment, according to the National Headache Foundation. These drugs, otherwise known by the acronym NSAIDS, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are an over the counter solution. Prescription drugs that combine different forms of NSAIDS and acetaminophen, aspirin and caffeine are also a reliable course of treatment during a menstrual migraine attack.
Hormonal Therapy
As menstrual migraines are caused by low levels of oestrogen, treating them through hormone replacement therapy is an option if other forms of treatment fail. Supplemental estrogen can be taken in patch form directly on the skin, or through oral therapy, according to the National Headache Foundation. Another option is to take an oral contraceptive and to skip the monthly break, or placebo pills, therefore missing the menses altogether. According to the National Headache Foundation this has become the status quo in Europe, and can be safely done for up to a year. Missing monthly menstruation through oral contraceptive use prevents the dip in oestrogen levels that cause menstrual migraines.
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