La o, our headache specialist and Director of the , explains what this disease consists of.

More than one million Spaniards suffer from chronic migraine. This means that they have more than half of the month days with headache, of which at least 8 are migraine. This pain is what used to be called mixed headache, because it includes typical episodes of migraine and tension headache.

This disease is underestimated by society as a whole. It is a complex disease that goes beyond frequent headaches.

It is common for sufferers to suffer in addition (cause or consequence, it is not known):

    • Depression/anxiety
    • Overweight/obesity problems
    • Excessive consumption of analgesics
    • Excessive caffeine consumption
    • Sleep problems

 

The consequences of this disease not only affect the individual who suffers from it, but also his or her immediate environment: partner, children and work activity. That is why it is essential to consult a neurologist and find an appropriate solution.

Treatment in these cases is more complex than in the case of a migraine with frequent episodes. All the factors that can contribute tothe acronym of the pain must be carefully assessed and a plan designed. A joint evaluation with a psychiatristand/or psychologist may be necessary and almost mandatory. The neurologist will determine if consultation with the sleep unit, ENT, maxillofacial, or neurosurgeon is also necessary.

What are the therapeutic possibilities?
  1. Oral preventive treatment (conventional)
  2. Preventive treatment with botulinum toxin injections
  3. Hospital admissions for analgesic withdrawal/pain control.
  4. Trigger point blocking
  5. Physiotherapy
  6. Neurostimulation treatment

 

What should a person who thinks he or she has chronic migraine do?
  1. Make a proper record of headaches. There are many recording models (www.midolordecabeza.org). This is the main and first source of diagnosis for the physician.
  2. Go to a specialized consultation where they confirm the diagnosis and provide you with a plan of attack.

 

Neither the sufferer nor his or her environment should resign themselves to chronic pain. There are therapeutic options.

On the occasion of the International Day of Action against migraine, the Neurology Department wants to contribute to the dissemination and awareness of this disease and give our support to those who suffer from it.