Drug-free options for managing migraine in adolescents

Adolescence

can be an exciting time for children. The transition towards adulthood can bring forth several new emotional and physical changes. Changes in lifestyle can result in special disorders affecting the younger generation. One such condition affecting adolescents is migraine. This

neurological ailment

remains second among the causes of disability in the world.

In 2021, a study found that 488 million people in India had headache disorders, of which 213 million were suffering from migraine. The condition often begins during adolescence and gets worse until peaking in their thirties. Hence, it is important to get them screened when the symptoms show and adopt a holistic approach that prevents migraine attacks from affecting their quality of life.
Migraine in adolescents
Migraine is a complex disorder characterised by recurring headaches that can be severe and throbbing. Pain occurs when certain nerve cells in the brain are triggered. Left untreated, an attack can last between 4 and 72 hours. The symptoms include sensitivity to light, odours and noise, nausea, and vomiting. Migraine can be caused by several triggering factors such as stress, hormonal changes, depression, anxiety, and head trauma. Children whose parents have the condition are at a higher risk of being affected.

Treating migraine

Given that the disorder is often misunderstood for a normal headache, a neurologist studies the symptoms, elicits the family history, and conducts a thorough physical and neurological examination before confirming the diagnosis. Conventional treatment involves prescribing specific drugs, but they can have side effects. Some pain-relieving over-the-counter drugs may offer short-term relief but may lead to gastric ulcers and dependency headaches. Some others may cause dizziness or may not be appropriate for use in certain cases. Hence, in this younger patient group, adopting non-pharmacological methods may prove safer and beneficial.

Neuromodulation

Neuromodulation

is one of the non-pharmacological options for migraine management. Remote electrical neuromodulation (REN) is a reversible and non-invasive process that involves administering an electrical stimulus in specific neural locations, alleviating head pain. Another neuromodulatory option is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), which involves stimulating brain tissues by passing magnetic pulses, thereby reducing the frequency and severity of migraine.

Along with neuromodulatory options like REN and TMS, several lifestyle changes can also help. Adequate sleep in a cool, dark, and quiet room can provide relief. Along with that, keeping phones, electronic tablets, or televisions away from the bedroom and sleeping on time can help too. Limiting the amount of caffeine consumed per day and drinking an ample amount of water are important to keep the attacks at bay. Studies have shown that a gluten-free diet can help reduce the frequency of migraine-induced headaches. A low-sugar diet along with migraine-preventing medications also provided similar benefits. Consuming foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can reduce the duration and frequency of migraines. It is equally important to eat meals, especially breakfast, at proper intervals. Physical activity and weight loss can reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. Lastly, maintaining a diary about the duration, frequency, and triggers can help in management and treatment.
Migraine can affect the mental, physical, social, and academic growth of adolescents. While prescription drugs can help, it is important to regularly discuss with your doctor about associated adverse effects and strategies for adopting drug-free methods such as neuromodulation to manage your condition effectively. Being aware and taking proactive steps through various lifestyle changes can help in better managing the condition.
Disclaimer: This communication is intended for public awareness purpose only and does not substitute advice of a registered medical practitioner. Please consult your doctor for any medical advice.
(Author: Dr. K. Ravishankar, Specialist in Headache Medicine, Jaslok Hospital and Lilavati Hospital, Mumbai)