Migraine
Introduction/Overview
Migraines are considered one of the worst type of headaches. Sometimes a migraine aura will precede a headache. These are times when you see spots or flashes of light and you can even have a numb tingling in one of your extremities. Migraines often start in childhood and chronic migraines continue throughout adult life.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
The symptoms of migraines include intense pain on one or both sides of the head. Migraine headaches are usually the throbbing type and the pain gets worse if you move around. In fact, many times the pain will stop you from completing your daily activities. Migraines cause you to be more sensitive to sounds and light. They are often accompanied by vomiting or nausea. If you suspect you have a migraine or you have a recurring headache which interferes with your life, see a doctor. You might have a CT or MRI to scan the brain or a spinal tap to rule out other diseases.
Known Causes
No one knows exactly what causes migraines but it is believed that the headaches have a genetic origin and an environmental trigger. An imbalance in brain chemicals might be the problem, especially since levels of serotonin fall during migraines. The pain is caused by the release of neuropeptides. Triggers, which are causes of migraines, can include foods, alcohol, bright lights, stress, female hormones, weather, and certain medications.
Treatments/Procedures
Migraine treatment usually involves pain medications, either over-the-counter or prescribed drugs. These can include NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), triptans, and even narcotics, although the use of an addictive drug for chronic migraines is not the best long-term answer.
Prevention / Vaccination
Even if migraines have a genetic cause, there are things you can do to prevent environmental triggers. For instance, if you know certain foods, alcohol, or caffeine triggers your migraine headaches, stay away from them. Stress can trigger a migrain, so learning to deal with daily stresses in a positive way can prevent migraines. Many times, adding exercise to your lifestyle can help prevent migraines as well. Check with your doctor before beginning an exercise routine. Women whose migraines are triggered by hormones should not take any supplements or treatments containing estrogen.
Prognosis / Management
If you experience chronic migraines, there are management techniques that can help. First of all, try to relax and deal with stress. There are many relaxation exercises you can do or you can join a meditation or yoga class. If you suspect a migraine headache is coming on, try to find a dark, quiet room in which to rest. Get plenty of sleep because sleep deprivation is a stressor. If you are diagnosed with migraine headaches, it is very important to wear a medic alert bracelet or magnetic bracelet identifying your disease, meds, and who to call in case of emergency.
Alternative Treatments & Products
Migraine sufferers try all sorts of alternative treatments. Some of these include using herbs, such as butterbur or feverfew (but not if you are pregnant). Coenzyme Q10 supplements are helpful for some people as is the mineral, magnesium. Talk to your doctor about magnesium injections. Massage can aid relaxation. Acupuncture and biofeedback both seem to help reduce the pain of migraines in many people.