TREATMENT OF AN ACUTE MIGRAINE

The key to success with an acute migraine lies in striking the attack on the head, so to speak, with measures being taken at the first hint of the migraine"s onslaught.
Drug Approach
Preparations containing the drug ergotamine can be excellent in stopping the development of a migraine as they prevent the blood vessels from swelling and throbbing. Ergotamine must be taken at the first sign of the migraine and is versatile being available as tablets, injections or suppositories. If ergotamine causes nausea, simply reduce the dosage or take it in suppository form. Some women find that one-half to one-third of a suppository of an ergotamine preparation such as Cafergot is enough to do the trick.
Ergotamine should be taken together with a painkiller such as Aspalgin (aspirin + codeine) or Mersyndol. A tablet or suppository to stop nausea and vomiting may be essential, e.g., Stemetil or Maxalon.
Other Strategies
Non-drug approaches for the early stages of an acute migraine or cluster headache may be effective. I have had success giving intravenous vitamin C in one litre of a mineral solution and in cases of dehydration 2 litres intravenously may be required. Clinical studies have shown that the inhalation of medical oxygen via a face mask can be up to 80% effective in relieving a migraine or cluster headache.
You can ask your local doctor about the availability of medical oxygen. He may have a cylinder in his surgery or may be able to fill in the necessary paperwork so that you can hire a cylinder of oxygen for use in your own home.
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