What are the symptoms of migraines?

Pounding or throbbing pain is usually aggravated by physical activity, location of pain can shift from one side of the head to the other, or it can affect any part of head, each migraine can last from four hours to three days.

Associated symptoms with migraine

• Sensitivity to light, noise and odors, nausea and vomiting, abdominal discomfort, fatigue, dizziness.
• “Aura” is a physiological warning sign when headache is about to begin (in 15- 20%).
• Visual auras include, bright flashing lights, distorted vision, temporary vision loss, wavy or jagged lines.

Treatment for migraine

• Acute migraine (abortive treatment – oral medications and nasal spray)
• Prophylaxis of migraine (to prevent future attacks)-oral medications.
• Chronic migraine – oral medications, and for refractory migraine botox.

How can migraines be prevented?

• Identifying and then avoiding migraine triggers.
• Stress management and cognitive behavioral therapy.
• Eat on a regular schedule and get adequate rest and sleep.
• Regular exercise and meditation.

What is the treatment for epilepsy?

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for epilepsy. The treatment you receive will depend on the type of epilepsy you have and how well it is controlled. Some common treatments include:

• Medications: Epilepsy medications are used to control seizures. There are many different types of epilepsy medications, and your doctor will find the right one for you.
• Surgery: Surgery may be an option if medications do not control your seizures. The type of surgery you receive will depend on the cause of your epilepsy.
• Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS): VNS is a treatment that uses electrical impulses to stimulate the vagus nerve. This nerve runs from the brain to the abdomen. VNS may be an option if medications and surgery do not control your seizures.
• Brain stimulation: This is a treatment that uses electrical or magnetic energy to stimulating certain areas of the brain. It may be an option if medications and surgery do not control your seizures.

Precautions to take by an epilepsy patient

If you have epilepsy, it is important to take some precautions to help keep yourself safe. Some things you can do include:

• Taking your epilepsy medications as prescribed.
• Avoiding activities that could cause a seizure, such as skydiving or swimming in deep water.
• Wearing a helmet when riding a bike or motorcycle.
• Planning ahead and bringing snacks and drinks with you if you will be away from home for an extended period of time.
• Letting people know about your epilepsy so they can help you in case of a seizure.