Don’t Let Migraine Put a Damper on Spring and Warm Weather Fun
Spring has officially sprung! After a long winter in many regions, this time of year brings the promise of more daylight, warmer weather, outdoor activities and vacation breaks. On the flip side, spring can also trigger seasonal allergies and even migraine for some.¹
Headaches, common during the warmer months, could actually be migraine which is frequently misdiagnosed as allergy-related sinus headache.¹ Migraine attacks are not caused by allergies but can result from seasonal weather shifts and related barometric pressure changes.¹ Migraine can also be triggered by common issues such as increased sweating on warm and humid days and not drinking enough water.¹ So a headache at this time of year may be more than just a headache.
Migraine is a debilitating neurological disease that occurs in approximately four to 11 percent of elementary school-aged children and eight to 15 percent of high school-aged children. It is often undiagnosed in this patient population because they have a more difficult time understanding and expressing their pain. Some of the feedback we hear from children with migraine include:
- Feelings of isolation resulting from their friends not understanding what is wrong
- Struggles in school because they frequently need to stay home
- Significant additional stress from managing their condition
These feelings of isolation and stress may be increased when children are not able to participate in all of the fun activities that the warm seasons bring. Although there is no way to avoid the weather, some recommended preventive measures to reduce migraine attacks can also help with seasonal triggers. An important one is to keep a consistent schedule and track diet, exercise and sleep to maintain a healthy balance.¹ Monitoring the weather for changes in barometric pressure can also help those affected by migraine to be prepared for a potential attack.¹
While treatment options for children with migraine today are limited, there are ongoing clinical trials in this population to further research and develop new and improved treatment options for the pediatric migraine community. Clinical trials provide an opportunity for patients to help advance scientific knowledge, potentially receive a new treatment option before it becomes widely available and have access to healthcare monitoring and care above and beyond the standard of care.
Biohaven Pharmaceuticals is currently conducting a clinical research study evaluating the safety and efficacy of rimegepant for the acute treatment of migraine in children. Rimegepant is approved by the FDA to treat and prevent migraine attacks in adults. Children who meet the following criteria may be eligible to participate:
- Between the ages of 12 to 17
- Have at least one migraine each month
- Have the ability to distinguish between migraine and other types of headaches
- Have at least a six-month history of migraine
- Weigh ≥ 88 lbs. at the screening visit
To learn more, visit MigraineAtSchool.org or to find a study center near you, visit PediatricMigraineStudy.com.