Migraines
Migraines usually consists of a one-sided throbbing headache which usually lasts for hours or even days. The headache is usually worsened by movement or routine physical activity. Migraines may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and confusion. All age groups usually suffer from migraines. Three times more women than men suffer mainly due to hormonal changes. People who are subject to migraine come in a large variety of shapes, ages, temperaments and personalities. Migraine is hereditary in approximately 60% of cases.
Causes of Migraines
- Changes in brain chemicals
- Genetic Factors
- Trigger Factors
- Travel (motion sickness)
- Sleep related triggers – sleep deprivation or disturbance, Irregular sleeping patterns, too much sleep
- Changes in routine e.g changing to shiftwork
- Increases in stress or anxiety levels. Excitement or other positive stressors.
- Foods and Beverages – cheese, chocolate, products containing MSG (e.g. hot dogs, chinese food), citrus fruits, dairy products, nuts, wheat, fatty foods, nitrates and marinated or pickled foods.
- Lack of food, delayed meals, irregular eating patterns, fasting and dieting (all lead to lowered blood sugar levels)
- Alcohol especially red wine
- Caffeine products or withdrawal from caffeine,
- Hormonal changes in women. puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, HRT and Menopause are all potential triggers.
- Meteorological Triggers – change of seasons, high atmospheric pressure, heat or cold
- Environmental Triggers – smoke, strong smells, high altitude, loud noise, bright, irregular or flickering lights, glare from wet surface while driving,
- Exercise – too much exercise may act as a trigger, although lack of exercise can also be a trigger.
- Smoking or passive smoking
Over-exertion / dehydration - Long periods in front of a computer screen.
- Head, neck or back injury, high blood pressure and other physiological irregularities.
Symptoms of Migraines
- Throbbing or pulsating headache on one side of your head
- Moderate to severe headache intensity
- Headache that gets worse with routine physical activity
- Nausea, vomiting or both
- Sensitivity to light and noise and sometimes smells
If pain persists visit your GP for a check up.
