WHAT IS IT? VASCULAR/MIGRAINE HEADACHES
A vascular headache is typically termed a ‘migraine’. A history of 5 or more similar headaches is necessary to be diagnosed as a migraine sufferer,
Signs and symptoms
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Sudden onset
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One sided
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Inability to carry on with normal activities of daily living
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Throbbing nature
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Nausea
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Visual disturbances (loss peripheral vision, flashing) onset 20 min before headache
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Vertigo
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Duration of hours
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Aggravated by climbing stairs
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Eased with migraine medication
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Eased with vomiting
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​WHAT CAUSES IT?
- Triggers such as sensitivity to light, smells, foods, noise
- Possible family history
- Medication (endocrine – oral contraceptive, HRT, or vasodilators)
- Stress
- Tiredness
HOW TO SELF MANAGE
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Medication (eg sumatriptan or aspirin)
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Lie in dark room
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Identify triggers and avoid them
PROGNOSIS
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Likely to be an ongoing issue
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Trigger identification is important
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Patients generally become good at sensing the onset and manage their condition appropriately (often with medication).
HOW PHYSIO HELPS?
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Assist with identifying triggers
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Exclude cervical contributing factors
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Acupuncture treatment
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Referral to GP
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