What is a migraine?

A migraine is a neurological disorder that can be characterised by recurring episodes of moderate to severe headaches. Typically, a migraine will affect one side of the head more than the other (NHS, 2022). Migraines are also accompanied by other symptoms including nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines can be very debilitating and can severely impact a person’s quality of life. Thankfully, there are a number of treatment options that can manage symptoms to allow people suffering to find relief.

Video Guide: Mayo Clinic Explain Migraines

Mayo Clinic have created a helpful video to explain what migraines are, the symptoms to look out for and how to cope with them. Take a look below:

Are there different types of migraines?

Yes, there are a lot of different types of migraines. These include:

• Migraine without aura: The most common type, with no warning signs.
• Migraine with aura: Specific warning signs like flashes of light or tingling in the hands or face appear before the migraine starts.
• Migraine aura without headache (silent migraine): No headache, but other migraine symptoms are experienced.

How prevalent are migraines in the UK?

According to NHS England, around 10 million people in the UK live with migraines. Migraine-related absences cause a loss of 3 million workdays yearly, costing nearly £4.4 billion. Headaches are also one of the most common neurological reasons for A&E visits.

Migraines can last between four hours and three days. They can significantly impact relationships and mental health (The Migraine Trust, 2024).

What causes a migraine?

The exact cause of migraines is not fully understood. Research has suggested that there could be a number of different factors that can trigger a migraine in a person and that some people are much more likely to suffer from migraines than others. It is also thought that migraines are triggered by genetic, environmental and neurological factors. Because of this, it can be hard for a doctor to pinpoint the exact cause of repeated migraines, which can make treatment difficult. Mayo Clinic (2023) outline some factors that can contribute to migraines:

• Stress and anxiety
• Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during the menstrual cycle
• Lack of sleep or changes in sleep patterns
• Exposure to bright lights, loud noises, or strong smells
• Changes in weather
• Certain foods and drinks, particularly alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, and cheese
• Physical exertion or overexertion

It should be noted that not all migraines will be caused by these factors mentioned above, and if you are struggling with repetitive migraines you should speak to a healthcare professional for further advice.

Migraine Symptoms

What are common symptoms of a migraine?

Migraine symptoms can vary, but the main one is usually a strong headache on one side of the head with pulsing or throbbing pain. Other symptoms can include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light, sound, or smell
• Seeing spots, wavy lines, or flashing lights

If you experience a sudden, very intense headache, seek urgent medical care as it could be a sign of a more serious condition.

Treatment

How can I treat a migraine?

Treating a migraine can be very difficult, especially if they are repetitive without showing a pattern. Typically, the best treatment for the occasional migraine will be to sit in a dark room and try to sleep it off. There are, however, very effective medications that can help people that suffer from migraines. Over-the-counter painkillers typically will not be very effective at treating migraines so people will typically need more specialised medications.

Coping with migraines

Identify your triggers and always have an appropriate treatment ready in case a migraine hits. Know what helps your body while the migraine passes and the treatment works. Share your plan with your doctor, friends and family so they can support you.

What can I do whilst my migraine passes?

Many people find it helps to lie still in a dark and quiet place to let the migraine pass, allowing your body to relax while treatment or pain relief works. If you're at work or travelling and can't rest, eating something may also help.

What are the different types of migraine treatment?

There are a number of migraine treatments that you can purchase from UK Meds. Our range contains a number of popular prescription medications such as Sumatriptan and Rizatriptan that can effectively help to treat and prevent migraines. We also offer a number of over-the-counter treatments such as Kool ‘n’ Soothe strips and 4Head Cutaneous Sticks.

Buy Migraine Treatment

Buying Migraine Treatments in the UK

Where can I buy migraine tablets online?

As mentioned, you can buy a number of migraine treatments online from UK Meds. We have a vast range of treatment options available from prescription-only medications to over-the-counter treatments that can help treat and prevent migraines.

Can I get a prescription for migraine treatments at UK Meds?

Yes, you can get a prescription for migraine treatments online at UK Meds by using our quick online consultation. Please note, all requests for supply of prescription medications are subject to an online clinical consultation and the decision to prescribe will be made by a GMC registered doctor.

More Information:

• Migraine - NHS
• Migraine - NHS Inform Scotland
• Migraine Headache: Symptoms & Causes - Mayo Clinic
• Migraines - WebMD
• What is Migraine? - The Migraine Trust
• Migraine - NICE CKS
• Migraine Research Briefing - UK Parliament
• Headache Disorders - WHO
• Migraine Fact Sheet - Brain and Spine Foundation

Further Reading:

Take a look through some of UK Meds useful resources below relating to migraines:

• How to Get Rid of a Migraine - UK Meds
• The Different Types of Migraine - UK Meds