The older child typically describes unilateral or bilateral recurrent throbbing headache often associated with nausea or vomiting. Photophobia or phonophobia is common. Characteristically, the headache is relieved by sleep or by simple analgesics in adequate doses. A family history of motion and travel sickness also is common. It is helpful to have the parents describe their own headaches.
Stress is the most important precipitating factor.
Sumatriptan, a selective 5-HT agonist, is an effective treatment for migraine. The metoclopramide can be given orally or intravenously prior to the DHE, which is administered over 3 minutes at a dose of Prophylaxis Migraine may be precipitated by a variety of factors, including stress, certain foods, lack of sleep, hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, alcohol, and certain medications such as oral contraceptives. Elimination of these factors may influence the frequency or severity of the attacks. Can be repeated q 8 h. Often used in combination with metoclopramide.