Those who suffer from chronic migraines know all too well how debilitating the condition can be. Migraine headaches leave people in severe pain, often feeling nauseous and vomiting, and experiencing sensitivity to light and sound.
It’s a condition that can leave people unable to work, or engage in their normal, routine activities. The good news is that there is hope on the horizon. New treatments for chronic migraines are currently being tested, and they may be exactly what people need to find relief.
Dr. Steven H. Richeimer, MD, Director Pain Medicine Master and Certificate Program
In the August 2019 issue of the Journal of Headache Pain, researchers offered a narrative review of the research that is being conducted on current and emerging treatments for chronic migraine.
They report that those who experience chronic migraines must rely upon prophylactic treatment options, which aim to prevent a migraine episode from taking place. However, they state that improved therapy is needed to reduce the burden of chronic migraine.
The study shares information about new treatments on the horizon for those with chronic pain. They include monoclonal antibodies that target the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) pathway. They report that the anti-CGRP/R monoclonal antibodies have thus far shown to be effective and tolerable during clinical testing.
At this point, they have gone through phase II and III of the clinical trials. Once the new treatment becomes available, it may be able to help those who are not using a preventative medication, and those who feel theirs is not effective in helping to address chronic migraine.
Chronic Migraine Pain
According to the National Headache Foundation, there are around 28 million people in the country who suffer from migraines. The foundation also reports that migraines typically start during adolescence or in the 20s.
Many people who have chronic migraine headaches are misdiagnosed, with health care professionals believing the person is experiencing tension or sinus headaches. Women are more susceptible to having chronic migraines than men are, and more than half of those who have them end up missing work or school as a result.
Those who suffer from migraine headaches can take a little comfort knowing that researchers are trying to find effective treatments to help with the condition. New treatments options are on the horizon. There are some non-drug therapies people can try to help prevent migraines, including getting proper sleep, eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of exercise, and engaging in relaxation techniques.
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