Migraines are severe, debilitating headaches that can cause some peoples live to virtually stop once an attack begins. However, there are some basic things that every migraine-sufferer should consider in order to help them to identify and lessen the amount of triggers that cause their migraines.
How can I identify my headache triggers?
Keeping a headache diary is one great way that you can identify your headache triggers and it often will lead to an effective treatment. Many such triggers include certain foods, stressful events, interruptions in sleep patterns, or physical activities. When you take your headache diary to your doctor’s appointment, your doctor will be able to see your headache history and any patterns to your headaches. Consider the following while filling out your headache diary:
• When did the headache begin?
• How long did the headache last?
• How often do you get headaches?
• Do they occur at the same time every day? If so, when?
• If you are a woman, do you get headaches before or near menstruation?
• How would you describe your headache: throbbing, steady and constant, pounding, stabbing, or splitting pain?
• Is the pain on only one side of your head or all over?
• Have you been exposed to known headache triggers that could be linked to the onset of your headache?
• Do you experience any recognizable symptoms before the headache starts, such as fatigue, yawning, excitability, or high energy?
• Do you have any visual disturbances (seeing flashes or sparks of light, wavy lines, or blind spots) before the headache occurs?
• Do you have any nasal symptoms or congestion with your headaches?
• Do you have a family history of headaches? If so, what kind?
When to consult a physician:
Migraine headaches are often left undiagnosed and untreated due to the varying symptoms and frequency from person to person. However, it is important to keep a record of any signs and symptoms that you experience and how you treat them. Afterward, you should make an appointment with your physician to discuss the best treatment plan based upon your recorded history of migraine symptoms. Whether or not you’re already being treated for your migraines, you should see your doctor if you experience anything suddenly different or if the pattern changes.
Tags: constipation, Depression, emotional stress, Fatigue, migraine triggers, strange food cravings, triggers
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