Migraines are a debilitating condition that affects more than one billion people worldwide. For many, traditional treatments provide little relief, leaving them searching for alternatives. These alternatives, like TMS, can provide hope for those struggling to manage their symptoms. We’ll break down what migraines are, how TMS for migraines works, and what the latest research says about this emerging treatment.
What Are Migraines?
While you might think a migraine is just a really bad headache, it’s actually a neurological condition with symptoms that can last hours and sometimes days. During a migraine, brain cells release a molecule called calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). This can trigger intense pain and other uncomfortable symptoms that make everyday activities challenging.
Migraines can come in different forms, and each one has their own set of symptoms and characteristics. Some cause visual disturbances or aura, while others may cause temporary weakness. Common types of migraines include:
- Migraine with typical aura
- Migraine with brainstem aura
- Hemiplegic migraine
- Retinal migraine
- Chronic migraine
- Menstrual migraine
Additionally, certain things can increase the likelihood of a migraine attack. These triggers vary from person to person but often include:
- Exposure to strong smells
- High levels of stress or tension
- Unexpected or loud sounds
- Irregular sleep schedules or disrupted sleep
- Bright or flashing lights
Common Migraine Symptoms
Migraine symptoms are different depending on the person, but they usually follow four phases:
Premonitory (Pre-Headache), Aura, Headache, and Postdrome.
The premonitory phase, or the pre-headache phase, can start hours or even days before the migraine begins. It includes subtle warning signs that a migraine is on the way:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Fatigue or excessive yawning
- Stiff muscles
- Nausea
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Irritability or mood changes
The next phase is the aura phase. Only about a third of people with migraines experience aura. It involves temporary sensory, visual, or language disturbances that typically last less than an hour. Symptoms include:
- Visual issues such as blind spots or zig-zag lines
- Tingling in fingers or arms
- Trouble speaking or finding words
The headache phase is the most intense and debilitating stage of a migraine and can last anywhere from a few hours to several days. During this phase, individuals may experience:
- Headache on one or both sides of the head
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells
- Blurred vision or dizziness
- Difficulty sleeping
Once the headache phase subsides, individuals will go into the postdrome phase, otherwise known as the “migraine hangover.” This phase can leave people feeling drained and out of sorts. Symptoms may last for up to a day and include:
- Fatigue and dizziness
- Body aches or lingering head pain
- Trouble concentrating
- Depressed mood or, occasionally, feelings of euphoria
Current Migraine Treatments
While there is no cure for migraines, treatments are available to manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of attacks. Traditional options include:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Triptans
- Ergot derivatives
- Opioids in severe cases
Recent research shows that CGRP antagonists like erenumab and fremanezumab target the biological processes behind migraines to prevent attacks. Complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, yoga, meditation, and herbal remedies, are also being explored. Additionally, TMS is being used as a potential treatment for migraines, especially in those with chronic symptoms.
How TMS for Migraines Works
TMS is a cutting-edge treatment for migraines that targets the neurological mechanisms behind them. Migraines are believed to involve cortical spreading depression (CSD), which is a wave of electrical activity in the brain that contributes to migraine symptoms. TMS helps by interrupting this process through magnetic stimulation.
This non-invasive procedure uses magnetic pulses applied to the scalp to stimulate brain tissue. Unlike medications, TMS directly interacts with brain activity which seems promising for those with chronic migraines who may not respond to traditional treatments.
Who Should Consider TMS for Migraines
TMS may be a good option for individuals who have not found relief through other migraine treatments. This includes those who experience frequent or severe migraines that affect daily activities despite using medications, integrating lifestyle changes, or trying complementary therapies.
It can also benefit those looking for a non-invasive treatment that avoids the side effects of some medications. Speaking with your doctor can help you determine if TMS is the right fit for you.
Who Should Avoid TMS for Migraines
While TMS is generally safe, certain people should avoid this treatment. Those with metal implants in the head or neck, a history of seizures, or conditions like epilepsy are typically not candidates for TMS. Pregnant women and those with brain conditions, such as tumors, should also refrain from using TMS due to safety concerns.
Types of TMS Used to Treat Migraines
Two types of TMS are commonly used in migraine treatment: single-pulse TMS (sTMS) and repetitive TMS (rTMS). Single-pulse TMS delivers a single magnetic pulse to specific areas of the brain and is often used to study brain functioning or disrupt certain patterns of brain activity during a migraine attack.
On the other hand, repetitive TMS uses a series of rapid pulses that cause lasting changes in brain activity. This not only affects the targeted area but also influences connected regions, thus helping to recalibrate brain networks involved in migraine symptoms.
TMS Side Effects
TMS is generally well-tolerated with only mild and temporary side effects for most people. The most common side effects include mild headaches, scalp discomfort at the site of stimulation, and temporary hearing sensitivity. It’s important to discuss any potential risks with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Benefits of Using TMS for Migraines
For those struggling with chronic migraines, TMS offers several potential benefits. These benefits may include:
- Fewer migraines over time
- Decreased pain intensity during attacks
- Shorter duration of migraine symptoms
- Can work for different types of migraines
- Effective for individuals across all age groups
- Minimal side effects and no invasive procedures
What Research Says About TMS for Migraines
Although TMS for migraines is still under active research, the results so far are encouraging. The following clinical trials and studies have shown TMS to be effective:
- A meta-analysis of five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 313 patients found that TMS was more effective than control treatments in reducing migraine symptoms.
- In an open-label study, high-frequency rTMS was both effective and well-tolerated for preventing migraines.
- Research has found that stimulating the left prefrontal cortex with rTMS is more effective than targeting the motor area. This suggests that specific areas of the brain are responsible for migraine management.
- Another study showed that real rTMS treatments outperformed placebo treatments in reducing migraine days, frequency, and pain intensity.
Get Migraine Relief With TMS Today
TMS is a safe, non-invasive treatment that offers relief from migraines by reducing their frequency, severity, and duration. With growing evidence supporting its effectiveness, TMS provides new hope for those who haven’t found success with traditional treatments. If you’re ready to take control of your migraines with TMS, contact us today to learn more.
Sources:
- Migraine: A Review on Its History, Global Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Comorbidities – Frontiers in Neurology
- New study identifies promising treatment plans for chronic migraine – Lerner Research Institute
- Migraine – National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
- 4 Phases of Migraine – The Will Erwin Headache Research Foundation
- New perspectives on migraine treatment: a review of the mechanisms and effects of complementary and alternative therapies – Frontiers in Neurology
- Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation as a Therapy for Migraine: An Overview of Systematic Reviews – Journal of Pain Research
- Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for depressive-like symptoms in rodent animal models – Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews
- Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation as a prophylactic treatment in migraine – The Egyptian Journal of Neurology, Psychiatry, and Neurosurgery
- The efficacy of transcranial magnetic stimulation on migraine: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials – The Journal of Headache and Pain
- Efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on chronic migraine: A meta-analysis – Frontiers in Neurology
- Increased migraine-free intervals with multifocal repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation – Brain Stimulation
