Daily Encounters Could Set Off A Migraine

The question on every migraine sufferers mind is what causes my migraines? Migraine causes, treatments and cures are still being researched with no definitive answer as to what causes a migraine, which treatment is most effective and if there is a cure for migraine attacks. Though no definitive answer can be found for several migraines related questions, research and science have come a long way in aiding migraine sufferers with answers to some of their questions.

Causes

Studies, test and research that have been executed over the last decade have proven to be beneficial in giving us insight into migraine triggers or possible causes for a migraine flare up. Migraine triggers are believed to be direct influencers in the onset of a migraine headache. Triggers could be food related, physiological or environmental.

Triggers

• Alcohol
• Certain foods, such as aged cheeses, chocolate, nuts, peanut butter, some fruits (like avocado, banana, and citrus), foods with monosodium glutamate (MSG), onions, dairy products, meats containing nitrates (bacon, hot dogs, salami, cured meats) fermented or pickled foods
• Skipping meals
• Crying
• Fluctuations in hormones (for example, pregnancy, before and during your period, and menopause)
• Odors – perfume, smoke or body odor
• Bright lights – flashing, strobe
• Loud noises
• Stress – whether it be physical or emotional Sleeping Habits – interrupted sleep, not enough sleep or too much sleep (not sure that is possible when you are a parent)
• Caffeine
• Cigarette smoke
• Medications
• Heat
• High humidity
• High altitude

Weather

In this particular article, we want to briefly discuss the role weather can have on migraines. Chronic Migraine sufferers often note an increase in migraine activity during weather and climate changes. Weather related migraines re often noticed when the following changes occur:

• Overly Bright Sunny Days
• Hot and Cold weather changes ( Florida residents understand this drastic weather change)
• Dry Air
• High Humidity
• Wind
• Rainy Weather
• Barometric Changes

Changes in the weather such as the ones mentioned are thought to create a chemical reaction in the brain that sets the serotonin levels off balance bringing about a painful migraine headache. Research on the weather and its direct influence on migraines is still under research, therefore it is suggested that migraine sufferers keep a headache journal noting which weather changes bring on migraine headaches and symptoms

Caffeine

Caffeine is a wonderful “upper” that serves as a great aid in helping one get through his or her day. For those that suffer with chronic migraines, caffeine can become a vital part of one’s daily treatment in avoiding a migraine headache. Caffeine can also be considered a migraine trigger when it is consumed in large doses. Though caffeine can be thought of as a migraine trigger, caffeine is also a common ingredient in several medications used to treat migraine headaches. Caffeine additives are said to help increase the effectiveness of migraine medication by 40%!

If used correctly and under the careful watch of a medical professional, certain forms of caffeine can be a helpful migraine treatment. Caution must be had due to the addictive nature of caffeine and the possible side effects it can have such as: anxiety, involuntary muscle spasms, insomnia as well as possible stomach pain

Foods

Certain foods can set the stage for a migraine to appear allowing the venue for a four act production that gets worse and worse until someone takes pity and closes the curtain. Refraining from alcohol, caffeinated beverages, chocolate and even aged cheese can help reduce the chances of a migraine reappearing in hopes of receiving a standing ovation.

Sleep

Sleep plays a vital role in the onset of a migraine headache. Quality and adequate sleep time are deterrents of a migraine attack. Who knew that sleep was so valuable (new mommies)? If you have ever suffered from a severe migraine attack you know the amount of pain and limitation one can have on an individual and that sleep is difficult in the midst of a migraine attack. Taking the time to perfect sleeping habits will help lessen the effect migraines can have on an individual.

Treatment Options

Migraines cannot relieve themselves they need assistance and though avoiding migraine triggers is a nice thought it is not always possible so a treatment option has to be in place. The following is a list of treatment options that a migraine patient can review and discuss with his or her doctor.

• Prescription Medications
• Holistic / Natural Treatments
  • Acupuncture
  • Therapy
  • Chiropractic Care
  • Herbal Supplements

Tags: blurred vision, constipation, dizziness, Fatigue, hallucinations, migraine triggers, nausea, sensitivity to light or sound, strange food cravings, vertigo, vomiting, zigzag vision