For some individuals, migraines can be a recurring issue that is extremely painful and disruptive to their lives. While it can be hard to decipher why some individuals suffer from migraines and others don’t, there are many options for treating migraines and achieving relief from chronic migraine pain. Make sure to contact your doctor about your migraines, to ensure you are on the right path of treatment for you.
Symptoms of a Migraine
Migraines can manifest themselves differently in each and every person, however there are a few specific symptoms that can differentiate a migraine from a simple, everyday headache.
Some symptoms of migraines include:
- Severe throbbing pain in the head, usually in a pulsing sensation
- An aura that occurs before the pain begins- this may include flashes of light or a tingling sensation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Hard time seeing clearly or speaking
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Pain tends to last from four to seventy two hours if left untreated
Common Causes of a Migraine
There are many different reasons for why someone may suffer from a migraine, including:
- Hormonal Changes- Fluctuations in the hormone estrogen may lead to headaches and even migraines in women. Hormonal contraceptives or hormone treatment medications may worsen migraines.
- Foods- Food additives, such as aspartame and MSG may cause migraines in certain individuals with sensitivities to these additives. Cheeses, salty and processed foods have also been linked to migraines.
- Alcohol- Beverages such as wine and beer have been linked to triggering migraines in those who tend to suffer from them.
- Sensory Stimuli- Sudden bright lights or glare from the sun can also lead to migraines, as well as strong smells and sudden loud noises.
- Stress- Stress that originates from home life or from work can trigger a migraine in sufferers.
Risk Factors
- Age- Migraines can start at any age, but tend to worsen by the age of 30 and decline in severity later into life
- Family History- If there are others in your family who suffer from migraines, you are at a greater risk of also suffering from migraines
- Sex- Women are three times more likely to suffer from migraines than men.
Treatment Options
There are many different treatments and medications that one can take to alleviate the pain and suffering associated with frequent migraines. Make sure to consult with your doctor before starting any new treatment plans.
- Pain Relieving Medication- This form of treatment is known as acute, or abortive treatment, and involves the use of common over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-nausea medications, opioid medications and Triptans which are used specifically in the treatment of migraines for their ability to constrict blood vessels and block the pain pathways leading to the brain.
- Preventative Medication- This tends to only be an option for those who suffer from migraines four or more times a month and who have attacks that last more than 12 hours. This form of medication is taken daily to prevent the onset of a migraine attack and includes cardiovascular drugs, antidepressants and anti-seizure drugs.
Other Remedies
There is a large list of other remedy options available for those who chronically suffer from migraines, including:
- Acupuncture
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
- Specific Herbs, Vitamins and Minerals- Such as Vitamin B-2 and Butterbur.
- Massage therapy