Migraines

Overview

A migraine is a special type of headache that is more painful than a typical headache. They mostly occur on one side of the head, as opposed to both in regular headaches, and can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days. They can occur anywhere from weekly to annually. People who suffer from migraines usually begin having them between their teen years and age 40.

Causes

Migraines are caused when the blood vessels in the head shrink and then swell. The change in size and pressure causes the migraine’s pain. Many different things can trigger this swelling and shrinking:

1. Certain foods and drinks

a. Items such as alcohol, beans, coffee, cheese, chocolate and pickles can trigger migraines

b. Foods with strong scents can trigger migraines

2. Fatigue

3. Missed meals

4. Emotional upset

5. Menstruation- many women get migraines right before, or the first day of their menstrual cycles

6. Tension or stress

7. Loud noises

8. Bright lights

9. Sudden weather changes

Symptoms

A migraine sufferer can usually tell before a migraine is going to start. There can be symptoms anywhere from 30 minutes to three days before one begins. Signs to watch for include:

1. Nausea

2. Vomiting

3. Pain or tingling on one side of the body

4. Feeling upset as though you have “tunnel vision”

5. Sensitivity to things such as lights, scents, and sounds

6. Loss of appetite

Even after a migraine, some symptoms can persist. These include:

1. Neck pain

2. Feeling dull and unable to think clearly

3. An increased need for sleep

There are two types of migraines, as well: classic migraines, which begin with the tunnel vision and flashing lights and colors, and common migraines, which don’t display those symptoms. Classic migraines may cause tiredness and depression a couple of days before their onset.

Prevention

Prevention of migraines mostly includes lifestyle changes or monitoring.

1. Keep a record of what was eaten before the headache. This will help the individual discover if there is a certain food that triggers the onset.

2. Maintain the most possible relaxing lifestyle. The following relaxation strategies are suggested:

i. Yoga

ii. Meditation

iii. Pilates

Treatment

There are different treatment options before and during a migraine.

1. Before a migraine, there is medication available to take when feeling the onset. This medicine is available through most doctors.

2. After a migraine begins, it is best to lie in a dark room with a cold compress on the forehead. Treatment during a migraine varies from person to person; some people prefer to lie in silence until the headache passes, while others prefer to play music or meditate during it.

In more extreme cases, there is also a surgery available to treat the migraines. Before surgery, a Botox injection is put into the forehead so that the muscles affected by the migraine can be found. After the muscles are identified, they can be surgically removed. This surgery helps many victims of migraines and also saves businesses millions of dollars a year.