Migraine
Headaches
Migraine
headaches are a type of headache generally causing severe
pain on one side of the head. The pain is often on the front
part of the head around the forehead, eyes, and temples. Nausea,
vomiting, visual disturbances, and sensitivity to light often
accompany migraine. Migraines are thought to be caused by
vascular changes in the blood vessels of the head. The pain
is caused by the blood vessels dilating (or swelling) in the
areas where the headache occurs. Chemicals, such as seretonin,
may trigger the swelling. Many migraine sufferers have an
aura (visual disturbances or changes in sensation) prior to
having a migraine; however, migraine can occur with or without
an aura.
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How
common are migraine headaches?
About
twenty percent of people in the US will have a migraine at
some point in their life. Two thirds of migraines sufferers
are women. (Source: www.intelihealth.com)
Migraine
Symptoms and Triggers |
| Migraine
Symptoms |
- Severe
pain on one side of the head
- Nausea
or vomiting
- Visual
disturbances (generally prior to headache) such
as zigzag lines in vision or blind spots
- Light
Sensitivity
- Sensitivity
to smells or tastes
- Fatigue
- Loss
of appetite
- Numbness,
tingling, or weakness
- Dizziness
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| Migraine
Triggers |
- Bright
lights, loud noises, or high contrast colors on
computer monitors or television
- Physical
or emotional stress
- Alcohol
or caffeine
- Cigarette
smoke
- Skipping
meals
- Changes
in hormones (from menstrual cycle, birth control
pills, or pregnancy)
- Foods
containing tyramine such as red wine and aged cheese
- Foods
containing monosodium glutamate (MSG)
- Other
foods such as chocolate, onions, or certain dairy
products
- Changes
in the weather
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Sometimes
migraines are triggered by certain foods or changes in environment.
Keeping a headache diary will help identify what triggers
your migraine. Record sleep, food, beverages, and any environmental
triggers that might occur before or during migraine.
Migraine
Prevention and Treatment
Some
things you can do to prevent migraine is keep a headache diary
to identify triggers. Try to eliminate any possible controllable
triggers from your lifestyle. Avoid smoking, caffeine and
alcohol. Exercise regularly and try relaxation techniques
to control stress levels. Over the counter medications such
as ibuprophen, aspirin, or Tylenol may help with migraines.
If you have more severe migraines consult your doctor for
prescription medication options including Midrin, Imitrex,
or Maxalt. Other methods to relieve migraine include using
cold compresses, laying in a dark room, or sleeping the headache
off.
New
Treatments for migraine
“In
the January 2005 issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery,
a study found that patients can be injected with Botox to
determine which muscles in their forehead or back of their
head triggered their migraines. Once the muscles are pinpointed,
they can be surgically removed.
The surgery eliminated migraines in 35 percent of the patients
and reduced the frequency, intensity or duration of migraines
in 92 percent.” (Source: http://www.4woman.gov/News/English/524158.htm)
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