What Are the Treatments for Nocturnal Migraines?

Over 36 million Americans experience some type of migraine headache, including nocturnal migraines. As migraine attacks increase, more sufferers are searching for treatment options to help manage or prevent these attacks.

Definition

• A nocturnal migraine is a throbbing, pulsating headache that attacks and awakens a person from a sound sleep between the late night and very early morning hours. The attacks typically occur around 4:00 a.m.

Symptoms

• Migraine headaches are debilitating and generally occur on one side of the head. Symptoms include dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound. Not everyone suffers from the same symptoms.

Trigger Factors

• Stress, exercise, bright lights, loud noises and strong odors can trigger a migraine, including a nocturnal migraine. Lack of sleep, too much sleep and changes in adrenalin levels while sleeping are other potential contributing factors. Migraine sufferers are advised to avoid these triggers as much as possible to prevent the onset of the headache.

Drug Treatment

• Prescription Medication for Migraines

  Excedrin Migraine and prescription drugs, such as DHE-45, Midrin, Ergostat and the nasal spray Migranol, can be used to treat chronic migraines. A physician or pharmacist should always be consulted about potential side effects and drug interactions.

Nocturnal Migraine Management

• It is important to manage the occurrence of a nocturnal migraine attack. The sufferer should immediately elevate his or her upper torso, rest and try to go back to sleep. This approach has proven beneficial.