Migraine treatments: what to expect

Acute treatment is used when an attack begins and may target pain, nausea, or both. Preventive treatment is taken on a schedule to reduce the frequency or intensity of attacks; it is considered when migraines are disruptive, difficult to control, or frequent. Choice depends on symptoms, other conditions, pregnancy plans, and current medicines.

Treatment usually works best as part of a wider plan involving sleep, meals, fluids, movement, and trigger awareness. A medication that suits one person may be unsuitable for another.

Ask your clinician when to take acute medicine, how often to use it, and what to do if nausea or vomiting prevents swallowing. Follow the prescribed dose, check non-prescription labels for duplicate ingredients, and keep a record of timing and response. Do not stop a preventive medicine suddenly without advice.

Bring your headache diary to reviews. Include headache features, light sensitivity, dizziness, nausea, missed activities, and unwanted effects. This helps the plan change for a clear reason.

Seek urgent help for a sudden severe headache, new weakness, trouble speaking, confusion, fainting, fever with a stiff neck, or a headache after injury. Arrange review when treatment stops helping, side effects are troublesome, attacks change pattern, or vomiting prevents fluids. New vertigo with neurological symptoms needs prompt assessment.

Is my current treatment for attacks or prevention? When should I take it? What side effects matter? Which medicines or supplements should I avoid? What signs mean the plan needs review?