Migraine is a debilitating condition that affects more than twenty million Americans. Sufferers of this condition experience a wide range of symptoms, which can make everyday activities challenging. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be time to see your doctor: Stuffy nose Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Headache Pain in the neck or head Dizziness Visual problems, such as double vision or blurred vision Ringing in the ears If you’re noticing any of these symptoms more often, it may be time to see a doctor. However, there are things you can do to manage your migraine without needing medication or surgery. Read on for tips on how to cope with migraine in the meantime.
What are Migraine Headache Symptoms?
Migraine headaches are one of the most common types of headaches. They’re caused by a problem with the blood vessels in your head. When pressure builds inside these blood vessels, it can cause pain. Some of the most common migraine headache symptoms include:
Sensitivity to light and sound
Nausea or vomiting
Dizziness
Lightheadedness or fainting
Stiff neck
Tingling sensations in your arms and legs
Causes of Migraine Headache
There are many potential causes of migraine headache, but the most common are stress, food allergies, and overuse of painkillers. Other potential triggers include exercise, bright lights, and changes in barometric pressure.
Many people with migraines experience auras before or during a headache. Auras can be visual (such as seeing colors), olfactory (smelling things), or auditory (hearing sounds). aura can precede the headache by up to 72 hours in some people.
Migraine headaches may also be preceded by symptoms such as sensitivity to light and sound, mood changes, neck stiffness, and minor pain in one or both temples.
Some people believe that stress is the primary cause of migraine headaches. When we’re stressed, our body releases chemicals called hormones that can lead to a variety of medical problems including migraines. The type and severity of a person’s migraine may be affected by various factors such as:
-Levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters
– genetics
– life events
Types of Migraine Headache
There are many types of migraines, but the most common ones include throbbing or pulsing pain on one side of the head, plus sensitivity to light and sound. Some people also experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some people have auras before a migraine attack that can signal a more severe headache is coming. The most common aura is seeing flashes of light or colors.
Home Remedies for Migraine Headache
There are many different home remedies for migraine headache. Some people find that using over-the-counter painkillers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, is enough to relieve their headaches. Other people find that drinking lots of fluids or taking Benedryl (diphenhydramine) helps alleviate their symptoms. It’s important to remember that not all home remedies are effective for everyone and it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional if your migraines are causing you significant distress or if you have any other health concerns.
Medications for Migraine Headache
If your migraine headaches are causing you significant pain, there are medications available to help. Most people who take these medications experience an improvement in their symptoms. However, not all medications are appropriate for everyone. Before taking any medication, talk to your doctor about your symptoms and what might work best for you.
Some of the most common migraine headache medications include:
An over-the-counter painkiller such as ibuprofen or aspirin can help relieve mild to moderate migraines. These medications work by blocking the production of pain signals from the brain.
A prescription pain reliever such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or NSAIDs like ibuprofen can provide more relief than over-the-counter painkillers and comes in pill form. Prescription pain relievers can be taken either with or without food. Be sure to read the label carefully before taking a medication, as some may have side effects that could be bothersome, including stomach upset and dizziness.
αβ Blockers (such as propranolol) are one type of medication that is often used to treat migraines before they become more severe. αβ blockers block the electrical impulses that send messages from the brain to various parts of the body, which helps reduce the intensity and frequency of migraines. Some people find that they need to take this medication every day while others only need it once or twice a month. Talk with your doctor about whether this type
Prevention of Migraine Headache
Prevention of migraine headache is possible if you know the top migraine symptoms to watch for. Headache is the most common symptom of a migraine, but not all headaches are migraines. A headache can also be a sign of other problems, such as anemia or dehydration. If you have any of the following warning signs for a potential migraine, make an appointment with your doctor:
1) Severe neck pain that does not improve with rest
2) Sensitivity to light and sound
3) Nausea or vomiting
4) Feeling of pressure in the head or face
5) Dual vision or blurry vision
6) Pain on one side only, especially behind the eyes
7) Diffuse throbbing pain throughout one or both temples