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Have We Found a Solution To Migraine? FDA Approves Device to Relieve Headaches

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Migraine headache sufferers can heave a sigh of relief, at least for now, with the approval of Cerena Transcranial Magnetic Stimulator (TMS) device by the FDA. This new device, developed by eNeura Therapeutics, hopes to relieve pain in those suffering from migraine with aura.

"Millions of people suffer from migraines and this new device represents a new treatment option for some patients," Christy Foreman, director of the Office of Device Evaluation in the FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health said in a statement.

Patients just need to place the device against the back of the head and press a button that will activate the magnetic energy and send pulses to the brain. This action will stop or lessen the pain related to migraine headaches preceded by an aura.

The device was tested on 201 patients who were suffering from moderate to strong migraine headaches and had auras preceding at least 30 percent of their migraines. About 38 percent of the participants reported no pain for two hours immediately after using TMS while 34 percent did not suffer any pain for a whole day.

During the study period, there were also side effects reported such as sinusitis, aphasia (inability to speak or understand language), vertigo (sensation of spinning), and dizziness.

The study notes that the device is not designed to treat other symptoms of migraine like sensitivity to light and sound, and nausea. The device is applicable for people aged 18 and above and having migraine with aura.

While using the device, users must make a note of the following points:

-          Do not use the device while wearing metals (in the head, neck, or upper body), or active implanted medical device such as a pacemaker or deep brain stimulator.

-          The device should not be used in patients with suspected or diagnosed epilepsy or a personal or family history of seizures.

-          Patients should use the device only for one treatment in a day.

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