
| Migraines Migraine is a type of severe headache that often affects one side of the head. It may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting or increased sensitivity to light. They are one of the most common types of headache. Who gets migraines? Migraines affect about 15 percent of adults. They tend to run in families, and are about twice as common in women than men. Migraines also affect around four percent of children, but they are most common in adults aged between 20 and 50. Migraine symptoms A severe migraine attack can cause a persistent throbbing or pounding pain, with sensitivity to light, sound and movement. The pain may be on just one side of the head, though there may be pressure on both. Attacks last between four and 72 hours. You may also feel nauseous, be sick, have diarrhea, or feel exhausted. Some migraines can cause other neurological (to do with the brain) symptoms - called aura. These are usually visual disturbances that start before or accompany the headache, including flashing lights, black spots, zig-zag patterns or distorted vision. You might also get a stiff neck, have tingling or stiff limbs, or have difficulty speaking. For many, the symptoms are so severe that they are forced to lie down in a quiet dark room and wait until the migraine stops. Migraine triggers Some people find that their migraines are triggered by something. Some example triggers include: certain foods such as chocolate, cheese, citrus fruits, coffee, tea alcohol too much or too little sleep changes in hormone balance in women - such as periods, the pill, menopause and hormone replacement therapy emotional stress, or relaxation after a period of stress irregular meals physical activity smoking bright or flashing lights loud noise weather - high pressure conditions, changes in pressure, hot dry winds, change of season and exposure to sun and glare intense smells such as paint, fumes from cars or perfume Unfortunately, avoiding triggers is not always possible, and even then this may not prevent an attack - most migraines have no obvious identifiable trigger. Our health professionals will work with you to determine the cause of your migraines. With our relaxation therapy and being less stressed, you may find that fewer attacks are triggered. Whatever the approach, it will take some time and support from our team for each individual to find a treatment program that best helps manage their migraines. |
