Although migraines are a complicated headache disorder, they occur more often than many people realize. Almost 13% of Americans—about 28 million people—suffer from the disorder.
Migraines are about three times more common in women at all ages. The disorder can begin as early as age 12 or occur at any age thereafter. But most people who develop migraines first experience them between the ages of 25 and 55.
Migraines seem to be hereditary. If a parent or other close relative suffers from migraines, a person is much more likely to get them.
About one third of migraine sufferers become severely disabled by the attacks or need bed rest to recover. This can limit activities at home, work, or school.
People who get migraine headaches are sometimes called "migraineurs."
Depakote ER is indicated for prophylaxis (prevention) of migraine headaches in adults.
What you can do about your migraines
Become familiar with your condition
- Learn about what exactly a migraine is and what may cause it.
- Educate yourself on migraine headaches.
- Understand the different phases of a migraine and how to deal with them.
- Take medications exactly as your doctor tells you to, keep all doctor's appointments for follow-up care and follow your doctor's instructions at all times.
Avoid common triggers such as:
- Certain foods, drinks—like chocolate, caffeinated beverages, wine—or food additives
- Irregular sleep patterns, or lack of sleep
- Emotional stress or anxiety
- Certain activities, or lack of any exercise at all
- Environmental factors such as strong smells, tobacco smoke, light glare, weather changes
- Hormonal influences, such as menstruation, birth control pills, menopause, estrogen replacement drugs
- Medications
Play an active role in your treatment
- Help your doctor best treat your migraine by keeping a diary of your symptoms, the severity of the migraine and possible events that may have triggered it. Click here to download a headache diary you can start using today.
- Your doctor may suggest taking steps such as: getting enough sleep, exercising, avoiding certain foods or stressful situations or making other important changes in your life.
- Stay positive. With proper care, most migraines can be managed.
Helpful Tools
Store valuable information with these printable tools:
- Questions for Your Physician (PDF)
- Physicians You've Spoken With (PDF)
- Medications You're Taking (PDF)
- Wallet Card (PDF)
Keeping Track of Your Headaches
Help keep your doctor informed on how well you or your family member's treatment is working.