When we're looking at Migraine and headache information, whether it's from our doctor, a book, or an online article, we sometimes come across medical terms that can be confusing.
Sometimes, it's easy enough to substitute another word or a short phrase for the medical term. At other times, substituting just doesn't convey quite the same meaning or takes more than a few words.
Some of you have expressed an interest in learning more of the medical terminology that comes up when discussing Migraine disease and other headache disorders. So, I'll be posting a "term of the day," probably a couple of times a week. If there are terms you'd like to have defined, please leave a comment to let me know what it is.
Today's term: Side Effects.
Side effects are any undesired actions or effects of a drug or treatment. Negative or adverse effects may include headache, nausea, hair loss, skin irritation, or other physical problems. Experimental drugs must be evaluated for both immediate and long-term side effects.
We sometimes discuss potential side effects when discussing Migraine and headache medications -- prescription AND over-the-counter, dietary supplements, and other treatments.
You can read more about potential side effects of Migraine and headache medications in these sections of our site:
For more terms, see our Migraine and Headache Glossary.
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Medical review by John Claude Krusz, PhD, MD.
© Teri Robert, 2010Last updated February 25, 2010
