Despite being one of the most common diseases in society, migraine frequently overlooked and still underdiagnosed. Some individuals prefer not to intervene further because migraines, especially the mild and no-aura subtypes, can produce the same symptoms as other types of headaches.
It is highly recommended for people who experience frequent and severe headaches to seek diagnosis and treatment from a doctor as sometimes the pain can be excruciating and will affect quality of life, in terms of work, mental health and relationships in the long term.
Rarely, there is a risk of persistent migraine episodes, seizures, and even strokes, if the affected person decides to brave the migraine storm alone.
Like any other disease, the key for us to win is knowledge about them. So what are migraines? It is an episodic headache disorder, with one-sided and severe headaches of varying character depending on severity accompanied by nausea and may be associated with light or sound sensitivity.
There are no definite risk factors for developing migraines, although some studies suggest that being female, a high body mass index, a history of head injury, excessive consumption of caffeine and opioids, and a stressful life can increase your chances of developing chronic headaches.
Still, anyone can have it and its causes lie within the complex chemicals and pathways of our brains. Specific disturbances in how they work usually cause inflammatory changes in the lining that protects the organs and the resulting pain.
Other symptoms caused by this disease are vomiting, sweating, lack of concentration, feeling very hot or cold, stomach pain and diarrhea.
However, the classic aspect often associated with migraines is the aura, or a temporary warning symptom. Auras vary from person to person and here are examples:
- Visual aura flashing lights, zigzag patterns or dots.
- Sensation of numbness and tingling
- Dizzy and feeling unbalanced
- Difficulty in speaking
It will come before the headache starts but some people will not develop an aura before the pain and some only get an aura.
Unfortunately, there is no definitive cure for migraines. However, there is always something that can be done to ease the pain.
Here are some tips you can apply to prevent or relieve migraine attacks.
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Know your triggers:
Common triggers for migraines include sleep deprivation, missed meals, stress, certain smells, certain foods, and hormonal imbalances. By keeping a diary, you will be able to identify your triggers and try to avoid them.
Keep track of any headaches you have after the pain goes away and try to remember what happened before the headaches started. For example, if stress at work triggers your migraines, then you need to control them.
Make a schedule and stick to it while trying not to procrastinate. If it smells, then block the scent by inhaling your favorite scent.
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Painkillers:
Common over-the-counter medications like paracetamol and ibuprofen work like magic for many people, not including those who already have severe migraine subtypes. These painkillers are effective when taken in the early stages of a headache.
This is because it takes time for the drug to be absorbed into your symptoms. Therefore, taking medication after the pain has worsened is not recommended.
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Turn to the dark side:
Many people affected by this disorder also have associated photophobia or light sensitivity. When the wave of pain comes, get yourself into a dark, quiet room or environment. Try to stay still and better yet, sleep.
Refrain from doing activities especially those that involve watching screens (televisions, computers, and cell phones). If you’re not at home, wear glasses.
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Consistent:
There is no published evidence yet about doing common things to prevent migraine attacks. However, many people find that it does help. Choose the same times to go to bed and wake up each day, as well as the same times to eat and exercise.
While doing something suddenly and without a plan may sound more fun, it can shock your body and trigger the episode.
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Hot and cold:
During an attack, warm compresses and hot showers may be helpful to relax your tight muscles. The same goes for the other side of the coin. Applying cold compresses around your neck during pain may provide some relief. Again, no proper explanation for this but if it helps then it’s worth a try.
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Massage and diversion:
Gentle massage or pressure on the forehead and scalp can reduce the discomfort you experience. Pinching your hands and rolling a tennis ball under your feet can also reduce headaches due to pain receptors on the bottom of your feet nervous system not going to completely focus on the migraine alone so it’s a bit of relief.
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Always know your limits:
There’s nothing wrong with seeking help from a medical professional regarding migraines as these are not ordinary headaches. In fact, if the pain you’re experiencing is severe, they may consider prescribing a migraine prevention medication that will benefit you. There are also other options of non-pharmacological approaches that may be offered, all of which are supported by evidence-based medicine.
Overall, there are many ways to relieve migraine pain. Different people may react differently to the tips mentioned above, but the last point applies to everyone.
While you may feel comfortable taking paracetamol or ibuprofen, there is still a need to seek a doctor’s opinion as side effects such as overuse of headache medications can further debilitate you.
