Migraines
A 34-year-old woman presented to the neurology clinic with a history of recurrent headaches that had significantly affected her daily life. She reported experiencing migraines approximately three to four times per month for the past two years. The headaches typically began as a dull ache behind her right eye, escalating into a severe, throbbing pain that lasted between 24 and 48 hours. During these episodes, she also experienced sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and occasional vomiting.
The patient described several potential triggers, including stress, lack of sleep, and certain foods, such as aged cheese and red wine. She reported that the migraines often began in the late afternoon or evening and were sometimes preceded by an aura consisting of visual disturbances, such as flashes of light and zigzag patterns.
Her medical history included mild anxiety and occasional seasonal allergies, but she had no significant past medical history or family history of migraines. On examination, the neurologist performed a thorough neurological evaluation, which showed no abnormal findings.
The physician discussed various management strategies, including lifestyle modifications such as stress management techniques and dietary changes. They also discussed the use of over-the-counter pain relief medications during migraine attacks and the potential for preventive treatments, such as beta-blockers or anticonvulsants, if the frequency and severity of her migraines continued.
The patient was encouraged to maintain a headache diary to track her migraines and identify specific triggers more accurately. A follow-up appointment was scheduled in three months to assess her progress and treatment effectiveness.
a) Once a week
b) Three to four times per month
c) Once a year
d) Daily
a) Dizziness and blurred vision
b) Sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and vomiting
c) Fever and chills
d) Sinus pressure and congestion
a) Dehydration
b) Stress, lack of sleep, and certain foods
c) Cold weather
d) Excessive exercise
a) Immediate surgery
b) Lifestyle modifications and the use of over-the-counter pain relief medications
c) Total bed rest
d) Increased caffeine intake
Answers
1. b) Three to four times per month
2. b) Sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and vomiting
3. b) Stress, lack of sleep, and certain foods
4. b) Lifestyle modifications and the use of over-the-counter pai
n relief medications