Pregnancy is a wonderful time of change and joy, but migraines could be quite a downer during this exciting time. Migraines are pulsating, throbbing headaches that tend to resonate around the temples. These headaches can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days. During pregnancy, when so many changes are occurring in your body, physically, emotionally and hormonally adding a painful migraine can compound existing issues like morning sickness, fatigue, dizziness and nausea.
Dealing With This Dilemma
Similar to any other headache you may experience during pregnancy, you can thank your constantly changing hormones for your migraines. Sadly, hormones are not the only place to put the blame for these pesky pains. Experts believe that those experiencing migraines during pregnancy are caused by an imbalance of brain chemicals, weakened blood flow to the brain, and changes to nerve pathways in the body. The last two typically impact women later in pregnancy, as their bodies begin to grow and change, putting pressure in different places.
Similar to migraines outside of pregnancy, it is important to watch for triggers that could induce an attack. Common triggers are stress, bright lights (fluorescents and sunlight most common), fatigue, excessive heat or cold, smoking (or excessive exposure to smoke), chocolate, artificial sweeteners and nitrates found in hotdogs. Some of these items should be easy, as they are recommend by obstetricians to avoid during pregnancy, such as smoking, artificial sweeteners and nitrates.
Women that suffered from migraines prior to pregnancy find that their experiences vary once pregnant. Some experience more migraines, while others have fewer during pregnancy. The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy could cause you to have migraine headaches for the first time.
Those already taking pain relievers for migraines will need to speak with their doctors regarding the safety of using the prescribed medication during pregnancy. One doctor suggests caffeine, via a single shot of espresso, and acetaminophen to ward off an impending episode. Just be mindful that caffeine should be limited during pregnancy and that it may act as a trigger. Limit caffeine consumption to less than 200mg a day.
Tags: Acupuncture, Biofeedback, chiropractic care, Coenzyme Q10, Magnesium, Massage Therapy, migraine prevention, stress management, Vitamin B-12
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