Why does migraine pain occur and is there a way to prevent it?
Few people have never suffered a headache in their lives. Many people suffer from headaches. It can sometimes cause pain in the left side of the head or in the back of the head. Migraines are a common type of headache. But it’s not a normal headache. I’m a migraine patient myself. So let’s find out about migraines today.
Does headache mean migraine?
Migraine is a common neurological disorder. The pain is usually on one side of the head, but can also be on both sides. Symptoms may include nausea or vomiting, discomfort behind the eyes, sensitivity to light or sound, and so forth. According to studies, there are about 150 different forms of headache problems. Headaches are characterized as either primary or secondary. Migraines are characterized as primary headaches caused by an underlying medical problem. Migraines can be diagnosed without the need for any specialized blood testing or diagnostic procedures. Migraines are a particular sort of headache disease. Headaches are not always migraines; a variety of factors can cause it.
Why do migraines occur?
The specific etiology of migraines is still unclear. Many think it is caused by abnormal brain activity damaging the brain’s nerves and blood vessels. The cause of this transitory brain change remains unknown. Certain triggers, in addition to family history, might worsen migraine symptoms. For example:
- Exposure to extremely bright light, such as sunshine or fluorescent lighting,
- Hormonal imbalances, such as fluctuating estrogen,
- Emotional and physical stress – Tiredness or overwork
- Consumption of particular foods and drinks, such as chocolate, cheese, coffee, and others.
- Excessive travel – Insufficient sleep – Prolonged laptop or computer use – Extended screen time
Are men and women more likely to have migraines?
Research has shown that the prevalence of migraines is three times higher in women, with one in five women experiencing migraines compared to one in fifteen men. This increased occurrence in women is ascribed to hormonal changes, such as those encountered during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, which have been linked to migraine pain. Migraine frequency frequently reduces after menopause, however it is most apparent before menstruation. However, Migraine discomfort is more likely in women aged 15 to 50.
A Few Common Questions
1. Is it hereditary?
Yes, there is evidence in the paper indicating the inherited basis of migraines. Four out of five members in a family have had migraines.
2. Do children get migraines?
Children can have migraines. Pediatric migraine discomfort is short-lived and associated with gastrointestinal problems.
3. Does migraine cause brain damage or may it be caused by any other disease?
Migraines do not cause brain damage. However, at an extreme degree, there is a potential for a stroke. For example, it may happen to 1 or 2 persons in one lakh.So there is nothing to stress about it.
4. Are you taking more painkillers to reduce your migraines?
Avoid excessive intake of painkillers. Take medication as prescribed by a doctor, but do not rely solely on medication.
The stage of the migraine
There are four stages of migraine and the symptoms of each stage are different. The entire migraine process, including all four stages, typically lasts from 8 to 72 hours. The intensity, duration, and type of pain can vary from person to person.
1.Prodrome
At the very early stage, symptoms such as problems with concentration, difficulty in speaking and reading, muscle stiffness, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound may occur. The duration can be from 3 hours to a few days.
2.Aura
Aura symptoms may include flashing lights, blurred vision, zigzag lines, changes in taste and smell, speech changes, and ringing in the ears. The duration is 5-60 minutes.
3.Attack
During the attack stage, symptoms such as sensitivity to light, sound, and smell, loss of appetite, dizziness, and nausea or vomiting may occur. The duration is 4-72 hours.
4.Post-drome
Difficulty in concentration, depression, difficulty in understanding something, etc. This stage, known as a migraine hangover, is experienced by 80% of people and is marked by symptoms such as difficulty concentrating and despair. Symptoms at the post-drome stage might last anywhere from one to two days.
Are there ways to prevent it?
Along with medicines, following specific lifestyle changes can significantly reduce this issue. Be sure to take your doctor’s prescribed medications. You will modify your lifestyle.
1) Include foods high in magnesium in your diet.
Low magnesium levels in the diet can trigger headaches or migraines. Therefore, you can include mixed nuts and seeds, bananas, dark chocolate, oatmeal, etc in your diet. Along with this, ginger is also very beneficial, because ginger works very well to reduce nausea.
2) Adequate hydration and sound sleep.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle by drinking plenty of water and avoiding direct sunlight exposure. You have to sleep for 8 hours at night. There is temporary relief in the pain of migraine by giving water bottles with cold water.
3) Avoid coffee, tea, and cold drinks
Develop the habit of drinking tea and coffee in moderation. Avoid drinking too much alcohol if you have the habit.
4) Essential oil therapy
Mix 2/3 drops of lavender essential oil with any carrier oil and massage it gently on the scalp, you will experience significant relief. Lavender essential oil is recommended for stress reduction and better sleep.
5) Meditation or Yoga.
Begin your day with some exercise, yoga, or calming activities. Along with good health, the problem of migraine will also be reduced. The more relaxed and fresh you are, the fewer migraines will occur. Meditation is a fantastic approach to alleviate stress.
6) Maintain a diary
Just like taking daily notes, keep a record of your migraines. Keep notes on when and how long the pain lasts. Keep track of what you did or ate that day. This will allow you to know the trigger factors.
7) Use glasses
Those with migraines should consider using specialized glasses for screen or sun exposure. But try not to look at the screen. Work with a break.
A migraine patient definitely knows when their migraine pain occurs. Adjust your lifestyle accordingly. Try to be yourself in some situations. Always remember that there is nothing more important than your health. So, follow a healthy lifestyle and take care of yourself. I hope you found today’s article helpful. Everyone’s good.