Overview of Migraine, Symptoms, Triggers & Prevention
A migraine may sound like a common problem but it is the sixth most disabling disease in the world. About 12% of Americans suffer from migraines. This genetic disease is a complex neurological disorder that causes recurrent attacks of headaches. The attacks can be a pounding or pulsing headache on one side of your head. Physical activity, sights, sounds, and smells can make this headache worse. It may last from hours to days.
Symptoms of Migraine
Symptoms of migraine differ from one person to another. It also depends on the types of migraine the patient is having. In some cases, the symptoms can be mild but in most cases, the symptoms become so painful that it becomes difficult to continue with the daily activities.
Here are some of the most common migraine symptoms:
- Severe head pain with a thudding sensation.
- Headache on one side in the beginning and then moving to the other side.
- Pain, nausea, and fatigue
- Having difficulty in speaking
- Temporary blurred vision, having blind spots or seeing flashlights.
- Diarrhea or constipation.
Triggers that may induce a migraine
A health expert may help you identify the causes that may trigger a migraine in a person. Though it is not certain what actually causes the migraine, certain things can be avoided so that the attacks of migraine can be averted.
These are:
- Sometimes skipping meals or having irregular food can cause you having migraine attacks.
- Low blood sugar can trigger migraines sometimes.
- Some foods like chocolate, dairy products, alcohol can trigger migraines in some people.
Types of Migraines
Health practitioners detected various types of migraines. Migraine with aura, Migraine without ‘aura’, Chronic migraine, Abdominal migraine, Migraine with brainstem aura, Vestibular migraine, Menstrual migraine, and Hemiplegic migraine are the different types of migraines that have been identified.
Prevention of Migraine
The complete prevention of migraines cannot be achieved. But prevention is needed so that the frequency, level of severity, and the chance of disability associated with migraine can be averted. So, the following can be practiced as preventive measures to avoid attacks of migraines.
- Taking medication in time.
- Avoiding certain foods once you know they trigger migraine attacks in you.
- Avoiding excessive stress.
- Ensuring a good night’s sleep.
- Doing regular exercises.
Making these lifestyle changes can certainly give you protection against frequent attacks of migraines. You can also make use of holistic therapeutic options like acupuncture, Biomagnetism therapy, or even surgeries as preventive measures against migraines.
It is always a good idea to consult with your primary healthcare provider for regular checkups and keep yourself informed.
