A migraine is an intense, throbbing headache.
The exact cause is unknown, although theories include genetic, vascular and neuronal dysfunction. Triggers include stress, lack of sleep, strenuous exercise, fasting and certain foods.
Symptoms include a severe throbbing headache, usually on one side of the head, nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and noise. There may be an aura of neurological symptoms that precede the pain.
The diagnosis is based on the medical history and physical examination. If migraine is associated with neurological symptoms, imaging tests may be needed to rule out other diseases (stroke, tumours, etc.).
Treatment of a migraine crisis consists of resting in a dark and quiet place, analgesics, antiemetics, 5-HT1 receptor agonists and ergotamines. Triggers should be avoided to prevent further attacks.
- Amy Gelfand. Pathophysiology, clinical features, and diagnosis of migraine in children. UpToDate, Marzo 2016
- Robert P Cruse. Classification of migraine in children. UpToDate, Septiembre 2016
- Prensky AL. Headache. In: Oski's Pediatrics. Principles and Practice, 4th ed, McMillan JA, Feigin RD, DeAngelis C, Jones MD (Eds), Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, Philadelphia 2006. p.2388.
- Robert P Cruse. Acute treatment of migraine in children. UpToDate, Junio 2016
- Peter J. Goadsby. Migraña y otras cefaleas primarias. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna, 19e. Capítulo 447
