Is it a Migraine Headache?
Migraines can cause throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. These headaches are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Attacks can last for hours to days, and the pain can interfere with daily activities.
What is an Aura?
A warning symptom, an aura, can occur before the headache. An aura might be visual disturbances, such as flashes of light, or other disturbances, like tingling on one side of the face, arm or leg or even difficulty speaking.
Risk Factors for Migraines
Family history: If you have a family member with migraines, then you have a good chance of developing them too.
Sex. Women are three times more likely than men to have migraines..
Age. Most people have their first migraine during adolescence, but migraines can start at any age, usually before age 40.
Hormonal changes. Headaches can begin around menstruation. They can change during pregnancy or menopause. Migraines generally improve after menopause.
Triggers for migraines
Certain Drinks and Foods . Alcohol and excess caffeine can trigger migraines.
Stress triggers migraines. Stress includes feeling overwhelmed at home or work. But you can also become stressed by exercising too much or not getting enough sleep.
Senses: Loud sounds, bright lights , or strong smells may trigger migraines.
Hormonal changes. Fluctuations in estrogen, such as around menstrual periods, pregnancy and menopause can worsen migraines.
Illness. Infections, such as the cold or the flu, may trigger migraines, especially in children.
Weather changes. A change of weather or barometric pressure can prompt a migraine.
Medications. Some medications, including oral contraceptives, can trigger migraines
Keeping a Journal of your migraine symptoms can be a key to treatment planning.
