Migraines are moderate or severe headaches that are accompanied by other features such as nausea, and sensitivity to lights, noises, and movement.
There are three main types of migraine:
The cause of migraine is not completely understood. The current theory is that the sensory areas of the brain are impaired resulting in excessive release of signalling molecules close to the blood vessels that supply the head and neck, causing pain, nausea and the other symptoms of migraine. Auras are caused by a wave of overactivity in the visual part of the brain.
Migraine often runs in families. It is more common in women, for reasons that are not entirely clear.
Most migraines occur without any reason; however, some patients may have specific triggers.
These may include:
There is no test to diagnose migraines. A diagnosis is made through listening to a patient and taking a thorough history and examination.
To help with diagnosis it can sometimes be useful to keep a headache diary, recording:
Migraine Treatment
Migraine can be treated through a combination of medication and self-care. Lifestyle changes and avoiding triggers can help reduce the frequency and severity of attacks.
Medications to treat symptoms are dependent on the severity of attacks, associated symptoms, and other health conditions.
Acute treatment involves either simple painkillers (e.g. aspirin, paracetamol, ibuprofen) and/or a triptan (e.g. sumatriptan).
Clinicians may prescribe preventative medication for patients with a significant reduction in quality of life. First line medications recommended by NICE include propranolol, topiramate, and amitriptyline, though other medications are available (e.g. candesartan, calcium channel blockers, sodium valproate), and Botox is licensed for chronic migraine.
Medicinal cannabis can be considered when first line therapies have not achieved adequate symptom control.
If you are a patient or carer seeking an appointment to discuss treatment with medical cannabis, you can complete this form and we can assist you with this.
Eligible patients can provide us with their healthcare records or we can obtain these through your GP. This is to confirm that a patient’s condition has been fully assessed and all other treatment options have been attempted. We will ensure that the primary care provider receives all treatment communication to maintain the highest level of clinical governance.
We also accept referrals from healthcare professionals.
To refer a patient to us, please click here to fill and securely submit a referral form.
Press contact:
[email protected]
Head Office Address: – Sapphire Clinics, 10 Harley St, London W1G 9QY
Postal Address:- Sapphire Clinics, PO Box 1436, Sunderland, SR5 9UE
| Overall Rating for this Location | Good |
| Are Services Well-led? | Outstanding |
