Migraines in childhood as a cause of headache in adulthood – how to prevent it? A literature review

Introduction and Objective. Migraine is the most common acute and recurrent headache in children. The pain is the result of stimulation of meningeal nociceptors. There may be a genetic predisposition to generalized neuronal hyperexcitability. Aura is caused by the cortical spreading depression (CSD).Migraines hamper daily functioning and cause adverse effects in future adult life. This review aims to introduce the most common forms and present their diagnosis and treatment methods. Review Methods. The following electronic databases were searched: Pubmed, Google Scholar using the keywords ‘childhood migraine disorder’, ‘paediatric migraine’, ‘migraine in children’. Articles in English were included. Brief description of the state of knowledge. The review shows both the diagnostic modalities of migraines and the latest methods of treating and preventing migraines from developing. Summary. In the diagnosis of migraine in paediatric patients, particular importance is attached to a thorough clinical history. Paediatric patients suffering from migraine have a reduced density of grey matter in the frontal cortex. In the therapeutic process a multi-media approach, including lifestyle changes, psychoeducation and psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, are important. Conclusions. There is a good response to OCT analgesics in children and adolescents. There are reports in the literature that migraine occurring in children becomes a risk factor for migraines in adults. Migraines in children represent a difficult disease entity, both diagnostically and therapeutically. To-date, no significant changes have been demonstrated on imaging studies in children and the symptoms themselves may be uncharacteristic. Further research is needed to consider and implement the use of new drugs.