migraine day of procedure tips

Overview

Migraine is a common neurological condition that causes intense, throbbing headaches, often on one side of the head. It can also cause other symptoms like feeling sick, being sensitive to light or sound, and seeing flashing lights or patterns (called aura). If you have a medical procedure planned, it's important to plan ahead to manage your migraine on that day.

Yes, migraine is very common. It is one of the most common neurological conditions around the world.

Migraine can affect people of all ages, including children. It is about three times more common in women than in men. Many people have their first attack during their teens or early twenties.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Throbbing or pulsing headache, usually on one side of the head
• Nausea (feeling sick) and vomiting
• Sensitivity to light, sound, and sometimes smell
• Blurred vision or seeing flashing lights (aura)
• Feeling very tired or irritable before or after the headache

Symptoms in children

• Children often have migraine without headache, just stomach pain (abdominal migraine) or dizziness (vertigo)
• They may have vomiting spells
• They may look pale and feel very tired

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may have fewer typical symptoms like visual aura
• They may experience more balance problems or weakness
• Symptoms can sometimes be confused with other conditions

Causes

Main causes

• Migraine is caused by abnormal brain activity and nerve signals. It is not just a 'bad headache.'
• Changes in brain chemicals, such as serotonin, play a role.
• Triggers like stress, lack of sleep, hormonal changes, certain foods, and weather changes can start an attack.
• On the day of a procedure, being anxious or fasting may trigger a migraine.

Risk factors

• Having a family history of migraine
• Being female (due to hormonal changes)
• Being under age 40
• Having other conditions like depression, anxiety, or fibromyalgia

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have a sudden, very severe headache (especially if it's the first time)
• If your headache comes with weakness, numbness, or trouble speaking
• If you have a headache after a head injury
• If you have a headache with fever and stiff neck

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have frequent migraines (more than once a month) that disrupt your daily life
• If your usual treatments stop working
• If you have a planned procedure and want advice on how to manage your migraine beforehand

Diagnosis

Migraine is usually diagnosed based on your medical history and a description of your symptoms. Your doctor will ask about your headaches, triggers, and any other symptoms. They may also do a physical exam and check your reflexes, coordination, and vision.

Tests that may be done

• No specific test can diagnose migraine, but blood tests, CT scan, or MRI may be done to rule out other causes if your symptoms are unusual or severe.
• Keeping a headache diary (noting when headaches happen, what you ate, your sleep, etc.) can help your doctor diagnose and manage migraine.

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will listen to your symptoms and ask you questions. They may want to know about your daily routine, medications you take, and any stress in your life. If you have a procedure coming soon, tell your doctor so they can help you plan. For example, they may advise when to stop or continue any medicines you are taking for migraine.

Treatment

Treatment for migraine includes stopping attacks when they happen (acute treatment) and preventing attacks (preventive treatment). There are many options, and you and your doctor can find what works best for you. On the day of a procedure, you may need to adjust your usual migraine plan.

Self-care at home

• Rest in a dark, quiet room during an attack
• Apply a cold pack to your head or forehead
• Drink small amounts of water or clear fluids if you feel sick
• Try gentle pressure or massage on your temples
• For a procedure day: Ask your doctor if you can eat or drink beforehand. Dehydration and fasting can trigger migraines. If you take any migraine medications, ask if you should take them before the procedure.

Medical treatments

Your doctor may recommend treatments to stop a migraine attack, such as certain pain relievers or medicines that target the nerves involved in migraine. Preventive treatments can include daily pills, injections, or devices that help reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. There are also newer treatments that target a specific protein. Always follow your doctor's advice, especially before a procedure. Do not take any new medication without asking your healthcare provider.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for migraine. In very specific cases, procedures like nerve stimulation or occipital nerve surgery may be considered. Talk to your specialist if your migraines do not improve with other treatments.

Living with this condition

Living with migraine means learning to recognize your triggers and taking steps to avoid them. Keep a regular routine as much as possible. For the day of a procedure, plan ahead: ask your doctor about eating and drinking, and whether you should take your regular medicine. Bring a comfort item like a pillow or eye mask. Let the medical team know you have migraine so they can help keep the environment calm and quiet.

Lifestyle tips

• Get regular, consistent sleep – go to bed and wake up at the same time each day
• Manage stress with relaxation techniques, meditation, or gentle exercise
• Stay hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day
• Avoid known triggers like strong smells, bright lights, or certain foods

Diet and exercise

Eat regular meals and avoid skipping meals, as hunger can trigger migraine. Some people find that certain foods (like aged cheese, chocolate, or processed meats) trigger attacks – keep a diary to see if any affect you. Gentle exercise like walking, swimming, or yoga can help prevent migraine, but very intense exercise can sometimes trigger an attack. On the day of a procedure, follow fasting instructions given by your medical team, but ask if you can have clear fluids or a light meal if allowed.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Migraine can be frustrating and tiring. It may cause stress, anxiety, or depression, especially if attacks are frequent. It is important to talk to your doctor about your mood. Managing migraine often helps improve your overall well-being. If you feel overwhelmed, consider speaking to a mental health professional.

Prevention

Migraine cannot always be prevented, but you can reduce how often attacks happen and how severe they are. This includes avoiding triggers, managing stress, and taking preventive medicines if your doctor prescribes them. For the day of a procedure, your doctor may give you specific instructions to help prevent an attack, such as taking certain medications before or after.

Complications

If left untreated

• Medication overuse headache – if you use painkillers too often, headaches can become more frequent
• Chronic migraine – having migraine on 15 or more days per month
• Increased disability and reduced quality of life
• Stress and anxiety about the next attack

Long-term outlook

With the right management, most people with migraine can lead full and active lives. Treatment options continue to improve. If you have a planned procedure, working closely with your healthcare team can help ensure a smooth experience and reduce the chance of a migraine on the day. You can find a plan that works for you.

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