What is Helpful to Know About Migraines?
This month we discussed headache causes, with a specific focus on migraines, what they are, and how chiropractic care can assist with overall management. Today, let’s dive a bit deeper into helpful information about migraines and bring it all together.
What are Migraines?
Migraines are complex neurological disorders characterized by recurrent attacks of moderate to severe head pain. They are a chronic condition that can cause throbbing or pounding pain in the head, neck, face, or all over. Let’s review some additonal symptoms:
- Nausea
- Sensitivity to light, noise, and/or smells
- Vomiting
- Visual disturbances, such as flashes of light or blind spots
- Tingling on one side of the face or in an arm or leg
- Difficulty speaking
Types of Migraines
Yes, there is more than one type of migraine!
- Migraine without aura: The most common type, with no warning signs before the headache.
- Migraine with aura: Includes visual disturbances (like seeing flashing lights or blind spots) or other sensory changes before the headache.
What Causes Migraines?
Identifying triggers, such as Common triggers include stress, hormonal changes, certain foods, lack of sleep, and weather changes is essential. Migraines are caused by activated nerve fibers in the walls of brain blood vessels, and untreated attacks can last from four to 72 hours. There is no current cure for migraines, however there are ways to treat symptoms and prevent them:
- Medications: Preventive and pain-relieving medications can help manage migraines.
- Lifestyle changes: Keeping a headache diary can help identify triggers, such as certain foods, hormonal changes, or weather pressure. Other lifestyle changes that may help include:
- Getting enough sleep and going to bed at the same time each night
- Eating healthier, including not skipping meals and avoiding food triggers
- Managing stress
- Exercising regularly
- Routine Chiropractic care
Migraines are different for everyone. It’s essential to work with a healthcare professional to develop a personalized management plan. If you’re in need of a chiropractic assessment to discuss the type and severity of a headache, Dr. Desiree Van Bogart at Desired Health Chiropractic is here to help evaluate your needs and answer your questions!