Understanding Migraine

What is a migraine?

More than just a bad headache, a migraine is a wave of unusual activity in brain nerve cells and changes in blood flow in the brain. A migraine attack can last from a few hours to several days and often causes severe head pain, along with other uncomfortable symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light, noises, and smells.1

NSAIDS and the phases of migraine

There are 2 phases to a migraine:

  • Initiation—when symptoms first arise2
  • Maintenance—pain that develops over several hours and lasts for a long time2

NSAIDs, like CAMBIA, work to treat symptoms during both of these phases. So, you don’t have to catch your migraine early for CAMBIA to work. NSAIDs are one of the most commonly used therapies to treat migraines.3

Living with migraine

Manage your migraine, wherever and whenever

In addition to over-the-counter or prescription medications, there are lifestyle tips you can follow to manage your migraines and minimize the effect they may have on your day-to-day life. The same lifestyle choices that promote good health can also reduce the frequency and severity of your migraines.4

Sleep well

  • Wake up and go to bed at the same time every day
  • Avoid intense exercise, heavy meals, caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol close to the time you go to bed
  • Certain medications may also interfere with sleep

Eat wisely

  • Eat at about the same time every day
  • Don’t skip meals, as fasting increases the risk of migraines
  • Avoid foods that may trigger your migraines
  • Limit alcohol and caffeine intake

Exercise regularly

  • Exercising regularly may reduce stress and migraines
  • Keep exercise intensity levels low to moderate to start, as vigorous exercises may trigger migraines

Manage stress

  • Simplify your schedule and life whenever possible
  • Find time to do something you enjoy for at least 15 minutes every day
  • Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises

Find a calm environment when migraine attacks

  • Relax in a dark, quiet room, since migraines often increase sensitivity to light and sound
  • Apply hot and cold compresses to your head or neck, which may dull the sensation of pain

Helpful Migraine Websites

There are many excellent websites to help you learn more about migraines and how to manage them.

American Headache Society

A professional society of healthcare providers dedicated to the study and treatment of headache and face pain. Offers a variety of infographics focused on migraine, treatments, and prevention.

American Migraine Foundation

A nonprofit organization that supports the advancement of research and awareness surrounding migraine. Offers migraine information, doctors, resources, and an online migraine community.

National Headache Foundation

An organization committed to cure headache, and to end its pain and suffering. Offers blog, headache tools, publications, webinars, and information on research and trials.

International Headache Society

An international membership organization working to advance headache science, education, and management and promote headache awareness worldwide. Members have access to Learning Center Resources on migraine from major headache specialists worldwide.

Migraine Research Foundation

A 502(c)(3) charity that funds migraine research around the world. Offers migraine information, doctor directory, and other resources and links helpful to migraine sufferers.

The websites listed are not affiliated with, controlled by, or endorsed by Assertio Therapeutics, Inc.

How do I take CAMBIASave with CAMBIA

References:

1.WebMD.com. www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/guide/migraine-phases. Accessed February 2019.2.Burstein R, Jakubowski M. Managing migraine associated with sensitization. In: Nappi G, Moskowitz MA, eds. Handbook of Clinical Neurology; vol 197. Series 3. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2011:chap 16.3.Pardutz A, Schoenen J. NSAIDs in the acute treatment of migraine: a review of clinical and experimental data. Pharmaceuticals. 2010;3(6):1966-1987.4.US Department of Health and Human Services, Office on Women’s Health. Migraine: Frequently asked questions. Office on Women’s Health website. www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/migraine. Updated March 14, 2018. Accessed August 14, 2018.