Treatments in the 19th Century
Treatment remained rudimentary. Physicians prescribed opium derivatives, bloodletting, and various herbal remedies. Caffeine was noted for its ability to relieve headaches, a discovery that later influenced modern treatments.
Surgical interventions were attempted in some cases, but these were largely ineffective and dangerous.
The Vascular Theory of Migraine
In the early 20th century, migraine was primarily understood through the vascular theory. This theory suggested that migraines resulted from spasms (constriction) and subsequent dilation of blood vessels in the brain. The aura was thought to result from the constriction phase, and the headache from the dilation.
This view dominated for decades, influencing drug development aimed at constricting blood vessels to relieve symptoms.
Identification of Triggers and Symptoms
Scientists and clinicians increasingly recognized that migraines could be triggered by various factors: stress, certain foods (e.g., chocolate, cheese), hormonal changes, and environmental stimuli.
The understanding of migraine symptoms expanded beyond headache pain to include nausea, vomiting, photophobia (light sensitivity), phonophobia (sound sensitivity), and cognitive impairment. shutdown123