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Most people have experienced some form of a headache at least a few times in their lives. It is pretty common and there are many reasons for people getting them. We all know what this pain is and in most cases a simple pill can usually help make it go away. It is however unlikely that all individuals can state that they have experienced a true migraine headache. These are much more intense, sometimes completely debilitating, and are nothing like than normal headaches. In most case it can create other complications for the persons that experience them on a regular basis.
One of the main differences is that this type of headache can last for several hours as a time and sometime are accompanied with an intense throbbing pain to the sides of the forehead. For some people it may even last for several days. The person that is suffering from a migraine will most likely have a very difficult time functioning normally in his or her daily life. In some cases it can be very difficult to complete even the simplest of tasks because it may be difficult to keep one’s eyes open when suffering from this sort of pain.
Excruciating pain in the head is usually not the only pain that is experienced by migraine sufferers. Most individuals will also report tingling in their arms, flashes of light, and difficulty in speaking and thinking straight. An upset stomach, vomiting or even a severe sensitivity to light and noise may also be present.
Unfortunately, another fact is that at this time there is no known cure for this type of pain. Many sufferers will report that they have success with medications that can reduce the symptoms they are experiencing, or the frequency of headaches may also be reduced significantly.
For many, the difficult lies in determining the triggers for these sort of headaches and hoping that by doing so they can eliminate them from their lives so that they can get back to their lives. By simply charting your activities, the food you eat, there is a chance that you might be able to identify patterns that may become an effective way to decrease their occurrences. For some individuals it may be as simple as removing certain foods from their diet while for others they may need to work on decreasing some of the stress that they are experiencing in their lives or even change your environment completely.
If you suffer from migraines, or know someone that does, it is highly recommended that you seek out a health care professional to help you move towards a finding some relief.
You are here: Home » Community » Articles » Migraines
To suffer a migraine attack is definitely no laughing matter. These violent headaches are so debilitating that many sick days are taken as the sufferer is often bed ridden and can become very ill whilst in the grip of a migraine. For some, migraines are manageable, for others they must endure the attack if they cannot find a medication that is effective.
What is a migraine?
Migraines are severe headaches that can last from about 4 hours up to 72 hours. They are very debilitating for the many people who suffer them. Generally nausea and vomiting accompany a migraine. Sensitivity to light and high noise levels are also a factor. Sufferers of migraines often report warning symptoms known as “aura’s” that can occur before the onset of a migraine. These symptoms can range from changes in smell, perception, flashing lights and visual disturbances.
What causes a migraine?
Migraines are caused by blood vessels that enlarge in the brain, known as vasodilatation. This in turn causes chemicals to be released from the nerve fibers that surround the large arteries in the brain. These chemicals are responsible for causing inflammation and pain and further increase the enlargement of the artery, which increases the pain even more.
The pain can be felt like a pounding, vice like grip and is extremely excruciating, often making normal routine for the sufferer impossible. It is common whilst enduring an extreme migraine to be bed ridden and unable to function for the duration. As the pain is so intense, nausea and vomiting usually accompanies.
What can trigger a migraine?
There are lots of factors that can trigger a migraine. For some it is the food they consume, such as chocolate, red wine or even aged cheeses. Bright light, certain odors, Hormones, caffeine and cigarette smoke can all set off migraines. Changes in weather, not enough or too much sleep can be a trigger. By knowing what sets off a migraine you may be able to keep them at bay or at least limit the number of attacks. If certain foods consumed are the culprit, simply cut them out of your diet to reduce your attacks.
What can you do to relieve or cease a migraine?
For those that suffer mild migraines, over the counter preparations are usually helpful in relieving the symptoms. For severe migraines it may be necessary to take prescription medication prescribed by your Doctor. Preventative medication may also necessary for those that suffer regular migraines. Aspirin is often good for migraines as it has anti-inflammatory properties. If you can feel the onset of a migraine, it is best to lie down quietly in a dark room. Try to avoid doing anything that can aggravate or increase the migraine. If you have been diagnosed as a migraine sufferer, take your medication as soon as possible. Sleep is the best medicine if you are able.
If you are finding that you are experiencing severe headaches that include any of the symptoms outlined above, it is imperative that you see your family Doctor. Your doctor can ascertain your situation and symptoms and prescribe a suitable medication to help relieve your symptoms.
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