Migraine

What is it?

This is a condition which is characterised by chronic headache which can last from several hours to several days. The symptoms can be severe enough that all the person wants to do is lie down in a quiet darkened environment.

Who gets migraines?

Women are three times more likely to get them. This seems to be related to hormone levels. Oestrogen levels seem to trigger headaches in women with migraine. People with a family history of migraine are more likely to suffer from them. More than half of migraine suffers get them before the age of twenty.

What causes migraines?

They are poorly understood. It is thought that genetic and environmental factors play a role. There may be changes in the trigeminal nerve, (a major pain pathway). Brain chemicals such as serotonin, (which help regulate pain in the nervous system), appear to be involved. Their levels drop in migraines and this may trigger the trigeminal system to release substances called neuropeptides which in turn irritate the coverings of the brain, the meninges, and subsequently cause headache.

Triggers

Hormonal changes in women.
Certain food stuffs such as alcohol, chocolate, caffeine, aged cheese.
Stress Sensory stimuli, such as bright light

Symptoms

Some or all of the following can occur in a migraine.

Moderate to severe head pain, either to one side of the head or both.
Pulsating and or throbbing sensation in the head, made worse by activity.
Nausea and sometimes vomiting.
Sensitivity to light and sound.
They can last up to 72 hours.
Sometimes there is an aura before the migraine begins such as flashing lights, or pins and needles sensations in an arm or leg.

Tips

Develop muscle relaxation techniques such as yoga.

Avoid too much physical exertion.

Get 6 to 8 hours sleep every night.

Keep a migraine diary so you can get to know your triggers, and once you know them try to avoid them.

Treatment

There is no known cure. There are, however, numerous migraine medications available which can help reduce the frequency and duration of the migraines. It is often a case of seeing the GP and being prescribed various medications until one is found to benefit you. This together with looking at life style, getting enough sleep and rest and avoiding triggers can help.

Complementary Therapy Treatments

Other therapies which may help migraine sufferers are acupuncture, bowen, massage, osteopathy and reiki.

Read about how acupuncture can help deal with migraines here.

If you would like further information please contact us here at the Earlsdon Practice by completing the form on our contact page or call us on 02476 691100.