Device to 'zap' away migraine

People suffering from migraine can now heave a sigh of relief — thanks to scientists who've developed a portable electronic device that can "zap" away the debilitating pain before it starts. In their study, a team at the Ohio State University has found that the experimental device is safe and effective in eliminating headaches when administered during the onset of the migraine. According to lead scientist Yousef Mohammad, the results of the study are promising given that only 50 to 60% of migraine patients respond to traditional migraine drug treatments. The noninvasive transcranial magnetic stimulator (TMS) device interrupts the aura phase of the migraine, described as electrical storms in the brain, before they lead to headaches.

Migraine sufferers often describe "seeing" showers of shooting stars, zigzagging lines and flashing lights, and experiencing loss of vision, weakness, tingling or confusion, followed by intense throbbing head pain, nausea and vomiting. Previous studies, conducted at Ohio State University, using a heavy and bulky TMS device, reduced headache pain. To expedite treatment at home, this portable hand-held device was developed and tested. "Stimulation with magnetic pulses from the portable TMS device proved effective for the migraine patients," Mohammad said

Link PTI