Migraines Explained
A blinding recurring headache, usually localized to a specific side of the head is known as migraine. Often accompanied by vomiting, nausea and heightened sensitivity to sound and light, migraines are distinguished by a state known as aura, the symptoms of which are a variety of visual disturbances such as splotches, flashes, shimmering lights, and zigzags around a blind spot.
Possible Causes of Migraine
When it comes to migraine, it is always caused by a certain stimuli or trigger. If you happen to suffer from migraine frequently, make sure to track it on the calendar and look for any patterns or specific habits that may have induced it. Following are some of the most common triggers to keep in mind.
Missing meals are often known to cause migraine as fluctuating blood sugar level can cause such a response. If this seems to be the case, it’s recommended that a grazing routine is adopted as going any longer than three hours without a meal can cause a migraine.
Caffeine is another trigger, especially if the patient is used to drinking cup after cup of coffee. Caffeine intake in such high volumes set you up for withdrawal symptoms; the resulting stimulation of the brain can induce this headache.
Natural Remedies
Depending on how serious your migraine condition is, you can then opt for either natural or medicinal remedies. If you are suffering from a mild case, natural remedies are recommended. Begin with ice packs. Application of cold packs is significantly more effective at stopping migraines than heat as ice has natural anti inflammatory effects.
Relaxation techniques have also proven to be effective in numerous cases. Massaging shoulders and neck can curb spasms, while practicing tai chi can heighten awareness and meditation can have a calming effect on the mind.
Medical Treatments
Migraines can originate or be a side effect of a wide variety of medical conditions. So in order to overcome your migraine, treating the underlying symptom takes priority. The large list of potential causes requires an equally exhaustive range of medications to counter it.
The most common class of medication being used to treat migraines is Triptans. First introduced in 1991, this medication effectively counters the migraine symptoms. However, note that stopping this medication can cause rebound headaches.
The next class of medicinal remedies is known as Beta-blockers. The primary purpose of beta blockers is regulating increased blood pressure. In addition, the effect it has on blood vessels makes it an effective remedy for migraines.
In some cases, anti-seizure medications prove to be the only form of relief when all else fails. It reduces the recurrence of migraines by as much as 50%, but it also has its fair share of side effects that include prolonged drowsiness and confusion.
The information discussed here is to allow you to make better decisions, and not a replacement for consulting your primary healthcare physician. Migraines is an illness of the mind, so refrain from self medicating as the result may not be what you’re searching for. If you are not able to see your GP then you can consult with a doctor online but the initial diagnosis will need to be done face to face.
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