What is a migraine?
A migraine is a neurological condition characterised by recurrent episodes of moderate to severe headache, often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines affect approximately 4.9 million Australians and are three times more common in women than men.
Migraine attacks can last from hours to days and may be preceded by warning signs known as aura, which can include visual disturbances, tingling sensations, or difficulty speaking. Migraines can significantly impact quality of life, affecting work, study, and daily activities. With appropriate management, many people may experience a reduction in the frequency and severity of their migraines.
When to see a doctor about migraines
You should see a GP if you experience regular headaches that interfere with daily life, if over-the-counter pain relief is not managing your symptoms, if you are experiencing migraines more frequently, or if your migraine pattern has changed. A GP can help determine whether your headaches are migraines and develop an appropriate management plan.
Seek urgent medical attention if you experience a sudden, severe headache unlike any previous headache, headache with fever, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, or weakness, or headache following a head injury. These symptoms may indicate a serious condition requiring immediate assessment. Your GP can also provide a specialist referral to a neurologist if needed.
How a telehealth GP can help with migraines
Telehealth is well suited for migraine consultations, particularly as many migraine sufferers find it difficult to travel during an attack. Your GP can assess your migraine history, discuss triggers, review your current treatment, and adjust your management plan without you needing to visit a clinic.
During your appointment, your GP can prescribe acute treatment for migraine attacks, discuss preventive medication if you experience frequent migraines, provide referrals to neurologists, issue medical certificates, and help you develop strategies to identify and manage triggers.
Treatment options for migraines
Migraine treatment typically involves a combination of acute treatment (for when an attack occurs) and preventive strategies (to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks). Your GP will assess your individual migraine pattern and recommend an approach tailored to your needs.
For acute treatment, your GP may discuss prescription medication options that can be taken at the onset of a migraine to help reduce its severity and duration. For those experiencing frequent migraines, preventive medication taken daily may be recommended to reduce the number of attacks.
Lifestyle modifications may also play an important role in migraine management. Your GP may discuss the potential benefits of identifying and avoiding triggers, maintaining regular sleep patterns, staying hydrated, managing stress, and regular physical activity. A headache diary can help identify patterns and triggers.