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Migraines

Feature: Migraines

Migraine attacks last at least four hours in adults and teenagers, and at least two hours in children. One typical symptom is a sudden, bad and pounding headache, usually on one side of the head. Read on to find out how to prevent migraine attacks and how best to cope with them when they happen.

Research summaries

Migraine in children and teenagers: Which drugs can relieve the symptoms?

The painkillers ibuprofen and acetaminophen (paracetamol) can relieve migraine attacks in children and teenagers and only rarely cause side effects. Sumatriptan nasal spray is also effective for children over the age of 12, but it causes more side effects. more...

Migraine in children and teenagers: Are there ways of preventing migraines without using medication?

Relaxation training plus biofeedback or behavioral training might be able to reduce the severity of migraines in children and teenagers. No specific diet has been shown to definitely prevent migraines in children, although eliminating some foods that trigger migraines might help. more...

Migraine in children and teenagers: Can taking medications or herbal products prevent attacks?

There is some weak evidence that some medications can prevent migraines in children and young people. However, not enough research has been done on their safety and effectiveness for them to be approved for use in children and teenagers in Germany. more...

Migraine medication: What are the differences between the triptans?

Drugs known as triptans can relieve migraine symptoms. There are differences among the triptans, for instance in what form they are used or in how quickly there is an effect. It is not certain whether any particular triptan has fewer adverse effects than others. more...