Pain, sensitivity to sound and light, vomiting, and nausea are all common symptoms of a migraine attack, which can be debilitating conditions. As a result, you may miss out on work, school, and other important events in your life.
Some people may have to go to the hospital emergency room because the pain is intense. Migraine is responsible for more than a million trips to the emergency room each year in the United States.
Migraine sufferers should be aware of warning signs that may necessitate immediate medical attention. The best reason to go to the emergency room (ER) is if you’re experiencing symptoms that are unfamiliar to you.
You should get checked out to make sure you don’t have anything else going on, like an aneurysm or meningitis. Stroke may be the cause of a severe headache that comes on suddenly.
We compiled a list of warning signs that may warrant ER visits. But before that, there are other important details to know.
Why do patients with migraine go to the ER?
People often worry about an underlying medical problem such as a brain tumor or bleeding. Because migraine symptoms can be difficult to control at home, many patients seek ER care.
They require more powerful medications that are only available in the hospital setting.
When to seek medical care
Migraines and other headache disorders can indeed be extremely painful. But they are not necessarily a sign of a serious medical condition. For new symptoms that are more serious than normal, it’s best to see your doctor for medical advice.
Be familiar with the signs and symptoms of your own headaches. Know when to seek immediate medical attention if they persist or worsen.
Signs of a medical emergency
Consider going to the emergency department if over-the-counter pain medication doesn’t help ease your migraine pain. Don’t put off your visit if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Speaking issues like stuttering, slurring, or other
- Hazy vision
- Seizure
- Confusion
- Numbness
- Inability to maintain a balance
Visit the nearest emergency room if you’re experiencing migraine headaches and unusual symptoms. Most hospitals have emergency rooms open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
There is a good chance you are used to self-managing your migraines and headaches. If they’ve become more frequent or severe, or if they’re interfering with your daily activities, see a doctor.
Treatment of migraine in the ER
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for treating migraine headaches. Your symptoms and medical history will influence the ER treatment.
There are, however, guidelines and standards in place as set by the American Headache Society. In an emergency room visit for a migraine headache, medicine is usually provided parenterally, rather than orally. This includes alleviated intravenously (via an IV tube, intramuscular injection, and subcutaneous injection.
These medically reviewed procedures may benefit patients with severe nausea and vomiting. They allow the medicine to enter the body faster. To avoid dehydration, many people receive intravenous fluids.
First-Line Treatments
Adults with migraine discomfort and accompanying symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting, can be prescribed one of three medications:
- Sumatriptan
- Prochlorperazine
- Metoclopramide
There is also a dose of dexamethasone, a steroid that helps prevent future migraines in adults with the condition.
Second-Line Treatments
Your ER doctor may also offer alternative medications if the first-line medications do not work.
Anti-convulsant valproate (It does not relieve migraines but may help prevent a recurrence of one)
- ketorolac
- Anti-psychotic Haloperidol
- Nausea-reducing antidopamine drug Droperidol
- Anti-inflammatory drug Diclofenac
- A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug called ketoprofen
- Antipsychotic Chlorpromazine
- Analgesic acetaminophen
How to Effectively Manage Migraine
Managing a severe migraine headache can be difficult that necessitates urgent medical attention. Various medicines have been used to alleviate pain, vomiting, nausea, and other clinical signs more effectively than others.
When going to the emergency room with a migraine, you must be a champion for yourself. You may also have someone with you who can take the role of advocating on your behalf.
It means being honest and detailed when responding to questions regarding your actual health. Tell them any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter products, vitamins, and recreational drugs, and so on.
When you’re completely open with your doctors, they’ll be able to find the migraine medications that will work best for you. For medical assistance, make an appointment with healthcare professionals at the Aether Health – Kingwood ER.
