There are millions of migraine sufferers all over the United States. If you are one of the people suffering from this neurological condition, you know how painful migraine attacks can be. In fact, they can be so painful that they can render you immobile for the whole day or even the whole week depending on the severity of your headache.
This is a very disabling disease that causes many companies with employees suffering from the condition to lose millions of dollars every year because of loss of productivity.
Fortunately for you, there are now a wide range of treatments and medications available which can help you in preventing migraine attacks and even relieving the headaches once they attack.
To treat yourself in your home, you can try using a frozen towel. Try to get a frozen towel handy in order for you to be prepared whenever you feel that a migraine attack is coming. All you need to do is wet the towel, squeeze it and place it inside the freezer for about 5 minutes. After that, place the towel on your head and your eyes. You will see that this will be able to provide relief from the pounding pain you will experience during an attack.
You may want to lie down on a quiet and dark room and try getting some sleep. This will help relieve the headache pain. You can also massage yourself on the head or get someone to massage your head.
NSAIDs are also very effective in reducing the severity of attacks. The doctor will also be able to prescribe you some prescription pain medication which can effectively prevent migraine attacks before it happens.
All in all, knowing about the triggers of migraine attacks will be able to help you manage the disease very well. By knowing about the triggering factors, you will be able to avoid such situations and help you prevent migraine from happening to you. These are the things that you should remember about migraine attacks and the available treatments and mediations to relieve the pain.
To Learn More About Relief Techniques and Medications for Migraine Headaches, Visit the Migraine & Headache Resource Center today at http://migraines-headaches.org/
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Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Migraine Headaches Can Be Understood In A Different Way - Check Out Ayurveda By Dr. Helen Mary Thomas
Migraine is a French word derived from the Latin word hemicrania, which means "pain in half of the head." Ayurveda have unique dosha principles to understand migraines. Unlike a tension headache this type of headache does usually affect only one side of the head, bringing severe throbbing pain. Migraines consist of two phases. In phase one the blood vessels constrict and the brain receives less blood, leading to an early warning sign called an aura. Most often the aura consists of visual disturbances such as visions of light, bright or geometric shapes and lines, and tunnel vision.Other auras include sensations of a strange taste or odor, tingling, dizziness, slurred speech, ringing in the ears, and weakness in a part of the body. This phase may also include nausea, vomiting, chills, and extreme fatigue. As the next phase occurs, the blood vessels open abnormally wide, which stimulates the nerves in the blood vessel walls. The pain begins and is usually accompanied by extreme fatigue. A migraine may last for hours or days and most often affects women.
Such headaches tend to run in families. Ayurveda teaches migraine may be triggered by hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to foods; if you have persistent migraine headaches, allergies are an important consideration. Also at play may be alcohol, bright lights, loud noises, hormonal fluctuations such as occur with the menstrual cycle, and some drugs. As is the case with tension headaches, Ayurveda teaches migraines and their treatment differ from dosha to dosha:
Ayurveda Vata migraine headache: This headache starts on the left side and is associated with other common vata disorders, such as insomnia, constipation, and flatulence. It occurs during the vata time of day (two to six P.M. and two to six A.M.) and is aggravated by vata-aggravating foods: bitter, pungent, astringent, thy, hot, and spicy.
Ayurveda Pitta migraine headache: This type starts on the right side and is associated with pitta disorders such as heartburn, sensitivity to light, and digestive upset. It usually occurs in the middle of the night, worsens during the pitta time of day (ten A.M. to two P.M. and ten P.M. to two A.M.) and improves at night.
Ayurveda Kapha migraine headache: This headache is usually caused by ama in the form of mucus and is therefore described as sinus headache. Your migraine is of this type if, when you bend over from the waist, the headache feels worse.
Migraine headache can be so severe that home care measures (and most conventional medicines) don't offer much help. Ayurvedic remedies prescribed by a professional are the best source of relief and prevention. However, following the Daily Lifestyle Regimen to balance your doshas may help minimize migraines.
Biofeedback teaches you how to warm your hands by increasing the blood flow to them. This appears to be effective in relieving migraine headaches for some people.
Try to discover what foods might trigger your migraine-several foods have been implicated, including chocolate, nuts, coffee, cheese, citrus fruits, and alcohol. Vata headache is frequently caused by indigestible food combinations, in particular combining milk with yogurt, bananas, or fish.
Understand A Very Unique Ayurveda Principle. Repression of natural urges and emotions is one of the most common causes of toxic accumulation and disease. This is especially relevant for migraine because a type of nervous tissue called majja produces tears as a waste product. It is extremely important therefore that you explore any emotions you feel may be trapped inside you.
HERBAL REMEDIES Start with the tri-doshic remedy (for all doshas), and if that is not effective, use one of the remedies for specific doshas.
For all doshas: Combine 2 parts brahmi (gotu kola) with 4 parts of either ashwaghanda (Withania somnifera) or shatavari (Asparagus racemosus); take 1/8 teaspoon of this mixture in 1/2 cup boiled milk or water. You may also combine 1 teaspoon vacha (calamus) with enough warm water to make a thick paste and apply to the forehead until the headache is relieved. You may also cut onions to stimulate crying; tears release toxic accumulations in your eyes, sinuses, and brain.
For Ayurveda vata and kapha: Combine 1 teaspoon cinnamon with enough ghee to make a paste and apply to forehead until the headache is relieved.
For Ayurveda vata and pitta: At onset of symptoms, take one ripe banana blended with 2 cardamom seeds and 1 teaspoon ghee. Repeat, if necessary, every 8 hours.
FIVE-SENSES THERAPIES
Taste: Vata and pitta types should emphasize sweet and bitter tastes, while kapha types benefit from pungent taste at this time.
Smell: Use the aromatherapy tailored to your dosha; for example vata types do well with sweet, warm aromas; pittas with sweet, cool aromas; and kaphas are helped by spicy, warm aromas.
Sight: Use yellow-green color therapy for vata; blue for pitta; and red for kapha.
Hearing: Listen to ragas during the appropriate hours of the day, depending on your dosha: Vata should listen to the noon or late-afternoon ragas; pitta to the midmorning raga; and kapha to the sunset raga.
Touch: massage the head, scalp,ears with sesame oil.
Hi, I am Dr. Helen Thomas. My passion is teaching people about Ayurveda because its helpful. In India, there are 500,000 ayurvedic physicians practicing in hospitals and clinics everyday. Migraine headaches are just one of the many health problems Ayurveda helps. Its different, alternative, and a different perspective. Come Visit, http://www.AyurvedaTreatmentGuide.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._Helen_Mary_Thomas
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6068200
Such headaches tend to run in families. Ayurveda teaches migraine may be triggered by hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to foods; if you have persistent migraine headaches, allergies are an important consideration. Also at play may be alcohol, bright lights, loud noises, hormonal fluctuations such as occur with the menstrual cycle, and some drugs. As is the case with tension headaches, Ayurveda teaches migraines and their treatment differ from dosha to dosha:
Ayurveda Vata migraine headache: This headache starts on the left side and is associated with other common vata disorders, such as insomnia, constipation, and flatulence. It occurs during the vata time of day (two to six P.M. and two to six A.M.) and is aggravated by vata-aggravating foods: bitter, pungent, astringent, thy, hot, and spicy.
Ayurveda Pitta migraine headache: This type starts on the right side and is associated with pitta disorders such as heartburn, sensitivity to light, and digestive upset. It usually occurs in the middle of the night, worsens during the pitta time of day (ten A.M. to two P.M. and ten P.M. to two A.M.) and improves at night.
Ayurveda Kapha migraine headache: This headache is usually caused by ama in the form of mucus and is therefore described as sinus headache. Your migraine is of this type if, when you bend over from the waist, the headache feels worse.
Migraine headache can be so severe that home care measures (and most conventional medicines) don't offer much help. Ayurvedic remedies prescribed by a professional are the best source of relief and prevention. However, following the Daily Lifestyle Regimen to balance your doshas may help minimize migraines.
Biofeedback teaches you how to warm your hands by increasing the blood flow to them. This appears to be effective in relieving migraine headaches for some people.
Try to discover what foods might trigger your migraine-several foods have been implicated, including chocolate, nuts, coffee, cheese, citrus fruits, and alcohol. Vata headache is frequently caused by indigestible food combinations, in particular combining milk with yogurt, bananas, or fish.
Understand A Very Unique Ayurveda Principle. Repression of natural urges and emotions is one of the most common causes of toxic accumulation and disease. This is especially relevant for migraine because a type of nervous tissue called majja produces tears as a waste product. It is extremely important therefore that you explore any emotions you feel may be trapped inside you.
HERBAL REMEDIES Start with the tri-doshic remedy (for all doshas), and if that is not effective, use one of the remedies for specific doshas.
For all doshas: Combine 2 parts brahmi (gotu kola) with 4 parts of either ashwaghanda (Withania somnifera) or shatavari (Asparagus racemosus); take 1/8 teaspoon of this mixture in 1/2 cup boiled milk or water. You may also combine 1 teaspoon vacha (calamus) with enough warm water to make a thick paste and apply to the forehead until the headache is relieved. You may also cut onions to stimulate crying; tears release toxic accumulations in your eyes, sinuses, and brain.
For Ayurveda vata and kapha: Combine 1 teaspoon cinnamon with enough ghee to make a paste and apply to forehead until the headache is relieved.
For Ayurveda vata and pitta: At onset of symptoms, take one ripe banana blended with 2 cardamom seeds and 1 teaspoon ghee. Repeat, if necessary, every 8 hours.
FIVE-SENSES THERAPIES
Taste: Vata and pitta types should emphasize sweet and bitter tastes, while kapha types benefit from pungent taste at this time.
Smell: Use the aromatherapy tailored to your dosha; for example vata types do well with sweet, warm aromas; pittas with sweet, cool aromas; and kaphas are helped by spicy, warm aromas.
Sight: Use yellow-green color therapy for vata; blue for pitta; and red for kapha.
Hearing: Listen to ragas during the appropriate hours of the day, depending on your dosha: Vata should listen to the noon or late-afternoon ragas; pitta to the midmorning raga; and kapha to the sunset raga.
Touch: massage the head, scalp,ears with sesame oil.
Hi, I am Dr. Helen Thomas. My passion is teaching people about Ayurveda because its helpful. In India, there are 500,000 ayurvedic physicians practicing in hospitals and clinics everyday. Migraine headaches are just one of the many health problems Ayurveda helps. Its different, alternative, and a different perspective. Come Visit, http://www.AyurvedaTreatmentGuide.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._Helen_Mary_Thomas
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6068200
Types of Migraine Headaches By Margaret Bell
Let's briefly discuss these types of migraines: basilar, classic, menstrual, hemiplegic and exertion.
For those who suffer with migraine they know only too well the classic symptoms associated with it. The terrible and throbbing headache that can persist from a matter of hours up to several days. Some migraine suffers may experience an 'aura', the flashing lights that cause distressing visual disturbance.
Other sufferers may have vomiting and constant nausea. Some migraine sufferers may experience one or all of these symptoms because there are several types. In fact, there are different types of migraines classified according to the causes and symptoms.
• Basic Types - with or without aura
Firstly, there are two different types of migraine based on aura. These are classified as migraine with or without aura. Migraines with aura have initial symptoms such as light flashing in front of the eyes or a blind spot, often referred to as ocular or ophthalmic migraine. Ocular migraine sufferers may not necessarily have a headache with this type.
• Children
We tend to associate migraine with adults, but children as young as five can develop a type of migraine called abdominal migraine. The symptoms for abdominal migraine are severe abdominal pain near the navel.
Children may suffer the other classic symptoms such as,
• vomiting,
• diarrhea and
• nausea, but not necessarily the headache.
It is for this reason that the condition can be easily missed for some time and put done to just a 'tummy ache' or an excuse for not wanting to go to school etc. It is not until the abdominal pain becomes frequent, that it is investigated. It has been found that most children who experience abdominal migraine, go on to suffer migraines with or without aura, later in life.
• Basilar
This is one of the most painful kinds and is often found in young adults. Basilar migraine is often accompanied with vertigo, a condition that makes everything feel it is spinning round. This may make walking and standing difficult. Basilar migraine is a that has an aura and is often found in people with a family history of this condition.
• Classic
Classic migraine is one with aura and headache. The symptoms include, flashing lights in front of the eyes, nausea, weakness and eye pain. Usually analgesics are given to treat the pain and there are now many good pain relief products available specifically for this type.
• Menstrual
Menstrual migraines are those that are experienced by women just before or after a menstrual period. This type of migraine is due to the hormonal fluctuations in a woman's body. Certain medications may aggravate this condition such as oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy.
• Exertion
Exertion migraine is a type of migraine brought on by physical exercise often combined with dehydration. Sometimes it can be brought on by a fit of sneezing or bending over. Fortunately, this type of migraine is normally short lived.
• Hemiplegic
Hemiplegic migraine is a type of migraine where a migraine headache begins in the form of temporary paralysis on one side of the body. This can be very frightening for the sufferer when first experienced as it can easily be mistaken for symptoms of a stroke.
• Most Types - Similar Symptoms
Most migraines share the same basic migraine symptoms, which is why most people assume there is only one type of migraine. Migraines afflict millions of people world-wide. They can occur at any age, but tend to diminish after age 50. The frequency and severity of a migraine attack varies from one person to another and on the type of migraine suffered. Although this is a very common condition, it affects can be very debilitating. For this reason it is always advisable to seek a health care professionals advice on treatment and medications, knowing which type of migraine you suffer from can help with this.
And now I would like to invite you to visit http://www.AHealthInfo.com for FREE Instant Access to more information on NATURAL MIGRAINE REMEDIES This could be the help you need.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Margaret_Bell
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5883704
For those who suffer with migraine they know only too well the classic symptoms associated with it. The terrible and throbbing headache that can persist from a matter of hours up to several days. Some migraine suffers may experience an 'aura', the flashing lights that cause distressing visual disturbance.
Other sufferers may have vomiting and constant nausea. Some migraine sufferers may experience one or all of these symptoms because there are several types. In fact, there are different types of migraines classified according to the causes and symptoms.
• Basic Types - with or without aura
Firstly, there are two different types of migraine based on aura. These are classified as migraine with or without aura. Migraines with aura have initial symptoms such as light flashing in front of the eyes or a blind spot, often referred to as ocular or ophthalmic migraine. Ocular migraine sufferers may not necessarily have a headache with this type.
• Children
We tend to associate migraine with adults, but children as young as five can develop a type of migraine called abdominal migraine. The symptoms for abdominal migraine are severe abdominal pain near the navel.
Children may suffer the other classic symptoms such as,
• vomiting,
• diarrhea and
• nausea, but not necessarily the headache.
It is for this reason that the condition can be easily missed for some time and put done to just a 'tummy ache' or an excuse for not wanting to go to school etc. It is not until the abdominal pain becomes frequent, that it is investigated. It has been found that most children who experience abdominal migraine, go on to suffer migraines with or without aura, later in life.
• Basilar
This is one of the most painful kinds and is often found in young adults. Basilar migraine is often accompanied with vertigo, a condition that makes everything feel it is spinning round. This may make walking and standing difficult. Basilar migraine is a that has an aura and is often found in people with a family history of this condition.
• Classic
Classic migraine is one with aura and headache. The symptoms include, flashing lights in front of the eyes, nausea, weakness and eye pain. Usually analgesics are given to treat the pain and there are now many good pain relief products available specifically for this type.
• Menstrual
Menstrual migraines are those that are experienced by women just before or after a menstrual period. This type of migraine is due to the hormonal fluctuations in a woman's body. Certain medications may aggravate this condition such as oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy.
• Exertion
Exertion migraine is a type of migraine brought on by physical exercise often combined with dehydration. Sometimes it can be brought on by a fit of sneezing or bending over. Fortunately, this type of migraine is normally short lived.
• Hemiplegic
Hemiplegic migraine is a type of migraine where a migraine headache begins in the form of temporary paralysis on one side of the body. This can be very frightening for the sufferer when first experienced as it can easily be mistaken for symptoms of a stroke.
• Most Types - Similar Symptoms
Most migraines share the same basic migraine symptoms, which is why most people assume there is only one type of migraine. Migraines afflict millions of people world-wide. They can occur at any age, but tend to diminish after age 50. The frequency and severity of a migraine attack varies from one person to another and on the type of migraine suffered. Although this is a very common condition, it affects can be very debilitating. For this reason it is always advisable to seek a health care professionals advice on treatment and medications, knowing which type of migraine you suffer from can help with this.
And now I would like to invite you to visit http://www.AHealthInfo.com for FREE Instant Access to more information on NATURAL MIGRAINE REMEDIES This could be the help you need.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Margaret_Bell
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5883704
Migraine Headaches - Common Food Triggers By Steve Clegg
ncredibly there could be 1 billion people in the world today suffering from migraine headaches, that's around 1 in 7 of the world's population.
What is even more incredible is how little is understood about the condition. There is no known cure. Many theories, many ways to manage the problem, many ways to help to relieve the symptoms and reduce the frequency of the migraine attacks but no cure.
One common issue that comes up time after time is a reaction to certain foods. Again, the reasons for these findings are unproven and nobody really knows why these foods should be connected with migraines. However, there have been many studies over the years and they show that many people are sensitive to certain foods which do seem to trigger their migraine attack.
The list could be huge but the most commonly reported triggers are:-
Cheese - Particularly hard or mature cheese
Chocolate
Alcohol - Especially beer and red wine
Processed meats - Hot dogs, salami, (these contain nitrates and msg)
Aspartame - An artificial sweetener used in many low calorie foods and drinks
Citrous fruits - Oranges, lemons etc
Monosodium Glutamate - MSG, a food additive that used to be associated with Chinese restaurants but is now included in most processed foods as a flavour enhancer. Common in canned soups, sauces, salad dressings, chips (crisps), most fast foods,frozen dinners and many more products.
Caffeine withdrawal
I would not suggest cutting out all or any of the foods that you might normally eat but what you can do is to become a detective. Start a food diary. Begin to write down everything that goes into your mouth each day. Food and drink.
Hi, my name is Steve Clegg from the UK
And if you would like to learn more about migraine facts figures and remedies then please feel free to visit the article section of my website here http://www.toptenonthenet.co.uk/articles.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Clegg
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5716653
What is even more incredible is how little is understood about the condition. There is no known cure. Many theories, many ways to manage the problem, many ways to help to relieve the symptoms and reduce the frequency of the migraine attacks but no cure.
One common issue that comes up time after time is a reaction to certain foods. Again, the reasons for these findings are unproven and nobody really knows why these foods should be connected with migraines. However, there have been many studies over the years and they show that many people are sensitive to certain foods which do seem to trigger their migraine attack.
The list could be huge but the most commonly reported triggers are:-
Cheese - Particularly hard or mature cheese
Chocolate
Alcohol - Especially beer and red wine
Processed meats - Hot dogs, salami, (these contain nitrates and msg)
Aspartame - An artificial sweetener used in many low calorie foods and drinks
Citrous fruits - Oranges, lemons etc
Monosodium Glutamate - MSG, a food additive that used to be associated with Chinese restaurants but is now included in most processed foods as a flavour enhancer. Common in canned soups, sauces, salad dressings, chips (crisps), most fast foods,frozen dinners and many more products.
Caffeine withdrawal
I would not suggest cutting out all or any of the foods that you might normally eat but what you can do is to become a detective. Start a food diary. Begin to write down everything that goes into your mouth each day. Food and drink.
Hi, my name is Steve Clegg from the UK
And if you would like to learn more about migraine facts figures and remedies then please feel free to visit the article section of my website here http://www.toptenonthenet.co.uk/articles.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Clegg
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5716653
Migraine Headaches and Chiropractic Care By Dr Collin Dolan
Migraine headaches affect millions of people on a daily basis. Females are affected twice as often as males and headaches usually begin around the onset of puberty but can vary. There does seem to be a genetic predisposition in families especially seen in females in a family. This category of headaches is typically broken down into to subcategories: Migraine headaches accompanied by an aura (Classical Migraine), and those without an aura (Common Migraines). Common migraines constitute the overall majority of migraine sufferers with about 80% of the cases whereas classical migraine sufferers make up the minority with about 20% of the cases. Most people commonly associate an aura with a migraine when discussing these headaches but it is not the norm statistically.
The aura leads up to the headache and is a nervous system reaction that typically involves the sensory system. Auras can be visual, auditory, sensory, and even motor. The most common visual aura is a visual change known as a scintillating scotoma which appears as a hazy spot in the central field of gaze followed by a patterned light that expands. The second most common aura is the pins and needles sensory feeling called paresthesia that can start in the hands or feet and radiate upward through the limbs to the face. Other common associated conditions include sensitivity to light (photophobia) and sound (phonophobia). The pain associated with the headache itself is usually graded as moderate to severe and is usually described as throbbing. The most common location for the pain is the frontal and temporal regions of the skull and in the area of the eyes but it can vary per case. The pain is typically one sided or unilateral and will build over the course of a few hours to become widespread and diffuse. The pain can last any where from 1-2 hours to more than a day depending on the severity of the episode. Nausea, vomiting, pallor, clamminess, and muscle aches can accompany the migraine as well.
The most common theories behind the cause of migraine headaches include trigger factors, vasoconstriction/vasodilatation, and autonomic nervous system overreactions. Scientists have identified a number of these triggering mechanisms. These include physical activity, stress, tension, poor posture, hormonal changes related to menstruation, puberty, and menopause, changes in blood sugar, allergies, and certain foods. The most commonly identified foods include coffee, tea, alcohol, caffeine, MSG, niacin, processed foods, histamine, and tyramine rich foods like chocolate, cheese, and red wine. The first step for anyone suffering from migraine headaches is to keep a "headache diary" in order to identify triggers or patterns. In the diary you should note diet, hormonal cycles, activities, interactions, medications, and any other environmental factors as well as timing, duration, and severity of headaches. This will allow patients to identify possible triggers in order to avoid them in the future. Stress management is another important factor in the treatment of migraines which can include meditation, relaxing, or even taking a break from stressful activities.
Chiropractic care offers patients relief from recurrent migraine episodes using a wide variety of proven treatments. Soft tissue myotherapy in the areas of the upper back, neck, and head help to reduce muscle tension. Gentle spinal manipulation has been proven to reduce muscle tension and improve migraines by reducing the frequency and severity of the episodes. Nutritional supplementation is helpful with omega-3 fish oils, calcium, vitamins D, B2, and B6, magnesium, riboflavinoids, and 5-hydroxy-tryptophan. Hot pack therapy has been shown to help during an episode and acupuncture to help prevent migraines from occurring. Patients experiencing severe, frequently occurring migraine headaches should consult a medical professional and those taking any medication should consult with their physician before attempting any nutritional supplementation. Migraines can run your life if they are left undiagnosed or untreated. There are a number of alternative and traditional medical treatments available to migraine sufferers so seek help today.
Aurora Chiropractors at Dolan Family Chiropractic are specialists in treating all kinds of back pain. Chiropractic Care successfully treats a wide variety of muscular and skeletal injuries including back pain, neck pain, and headaches without the use of harmful medications and surgeries. Dolan Family Chiropractic is considered to be one of the top chiropractic offices in the Aurora and Naperville areas of Illinois and is conveniently located in Aurora, IL on the corner of Eola Rd and North Aurora Rd in the Jewel Shopping Center.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr_Collin_Dolan
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5746484
The aura leads up to the headache and is a nervous system reaction that typically involves the sensory system. Auras can be visual, auditory, sensory, and even motor. The most common visual aura is a visual change known as a scintillating scotoma which appears as a hazy spot in the central field of gaze followed by a patterned light that expands. The second most common aura is the pins and needles sensory feeling called paresthesia that can start in the hands or feet and radiate upward through the limbs to the face. Other common associated conditions include sensitivity to light (photophobia) and sound (phonophobia). The pain associated with the headache itself is usually graded as moderate to severe and is usually described as throbbing. The most common location for the pain is the frontal and temporal regions of the skull and in the area of the eyes but it can vary per case. The pain is typically one sided or unilateral and will build over the course of a few hours to become widespread and diffuse. The pain can last any where from 1-2 hours to more than a day depending on the severity of the episode. Nausea, vomiting, pallor, clamminess, and muscle aches can accompany the migraine as well.
The most common theories behind the cause of migraine headaches include trigger factors, vasoconstriction/vasodilatation, and autonomic nervous system overreactions. Scientists have identified a number of these triggering mechanisms. These include physical activity, stress, tension, poor posture, hormonal changes related to menstruation, puberty, and menopause, changes in blood sugar, allergies, and certain foods. The most commonly identified foods include coffee, tea, alcohol, caffeine, MSG, niacin, processed foods, histamine, and tyramine rich foods like chocolate, cheese, and red wine. The first step for anyone suffering from migraine headaches is to keep a "headache diary" in order to identify triggers or patterns. In the diary you should note diet, hormonal cycles, activities, interactions, medications, and any other environmental factors as well as timing, duration, and severity of headaches. This will allow patients to identify possible triggers in order to avoid them in the future. Stress management is another important factor in the treatment of migraines which can include meditation, relaxing, or even taking a break from stressful activities.
Chiropractic care offers patients relief from recurrent migraine episodes using a wide variety of proven treatments. Soft tissue myotherapy in the areas of the upper back, neck, and head help to reduce muscle tension. Gentle spinal manipulation has been proven to reduce muscle tension and improve migraines by reducing the frequency and severity of the episodes. Nutritional supplementation is helpful with omega-3 fish oils, calcium, vitamins D, B2, and B6, magnesium, riboflavinoids, and 5-hydroxy-tryptophan. Hot pack therapy has been shown to help during an episode and acupuncture to help prevent migraines from occurring. Patients experiencing severe, frequently occurring migraine headaches should consult a medical professional and those taking any medication should consult with their physician before attempting any nutritional supplementation. Migraines can run your life if they are left undiagnosed or untreated. There are a number of alternative and traditional medical treatments available to migraine sufferers so seek help today.
Aurora Chiropractors at Dolan Family Chiropractic are specialists in treating all kinds of back pain. Chiropractic Care successfully treats a wide variety of muscular and skeletal injuries including back pain, neck pain, and headaches without the use of harmful medications and surgeries. Dolan Family Chiropractic is considered to be one of the top chiropractic offices in the Aurora and Naperville areas of Illinois and is conveniently located in Aurora, IL on the corner of Eola Rd and North Aurora Rd in the Jewel Shopping Center.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr_Collin_Dolan
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5746484
Learning to Live With Migraine Headaches By Moira G Gallaga
Having a migraine headache can be a very debilitating and frustrating experience. Some people are lucky enough never to know the pain of a migraine headache, while others must take precaution and search for the best treatment.
Symptoms of a migraine are more severe than a regular headache. The Mayo Clinic describes this type of headache as lasting for several hours or even days accompanied by sensitivity to light, feelings of nausea, sensitivity to sound and possible vomiting. Many sufferers even experience blind spots, flashing lights, and tingling sensations in their arms and/or legs.
Just imagine trying to finish a day's work when your head is pounding. Migraines make easy everyday tasks more difficult because all the victim can do is focus on the throbbing. During very severe episodes, you will probably not be able to do anything at all. If you suffer from light and sound sensitivity during a migraine you would be better off isolating yourself in a dark room in utter silence.For some of us who suffer migraines, a door being opened and closed as gently as possible still sounds and feels like a drum banging beside our heads. As such, family members or people living with you must be aware of this so they don't make things worse for you.
There is no known cure for migraine headaches. This makes life challenging and unpleasant for those who have chronic migraines. Doctors can prescribe medications to help alleviate the pain and other symptoms, but waiting the headache out can be a very draining and excruciating experience. It is important to note that medicines to deal with the pain brought about by a migraine is more effective when it is taken before the migraine has become severe. You will need to know how to anticipate the onset of an attack and take your medication before its get more serious. It may not necessarily stop the migraine, but it may somewhat decrease its severity.
While experiencing a migraine headache can be a terrible, all-consuming feeling, there are certain triggers that you can watch out for and learn to avoid so you can minimize the onset of your migraines.
Stress is a huge trigger when it comes to migraine headaches. According to WebMD, when a person undergoes a stressful experience, the brain releases a set of chemicals to combat the strain. Even though the brain is trying to fight the headache, these chemicals often makes it worse.
This is why it is so important for those who are susceptible to migraines to learn how to be calm and deal with stress. With less stress, the frequency of migraine occurrences might diminish. Being less frazzled does not necessarily mean that these painful headaches will go away. Thus, it is still important to look out for other factors in your life that might be causing migraines as well.
Another migraine trigger happens to involve what you eat or drink. Some doctors believe that migraines can be helped by controlling diet. Offenders include cheese, alcohol, caffeine, peanuts, tea, non-aged meats, wine, chocolates etc. We may love these things, but is it worth the constant headache? No, it is not. Dietary triggers for migraines are usually unique to each person. What can trigger a migraine in one person does not necessarily trigger a migraine in another person. You might need to do a bit of trial and error to figure out what are your specific dietary triggers, but it will be worth the effort as this will allow you to avoid food and drinks that are sure to cause a migraine attack.
Diet and stress are not the only causes of migraines, though. Sleep patterns, light sensitivity, hormones, physical exertion, and much more can contribute. Since these are aspects of life that we cannot escape at times, it is imperative to learn to identify these factors and manage them as much as possible.
In the end, migraine headaches might beat us down at times, but it is in our power to be cautious and be able to manage it. There is no way to completely make these headaches disappear, but lessening the severity and frequency is a very real possibility by learning how to identify the triggers, adjust your lifestyle so as to avoid those triggers and developing methods to help you cope during the onset of a migraine attack.
Civil servant from the Philippine Foreign Service. Specializes in Protocol and served 3 Philippine Presidents as Presidential Protocol Officer. Had the opportunity to travel extensively as part of her work and the privilege of discovering and exploring new places, cultures and peoples. Also assigned along with her diplomat husband and son in Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles and Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. for 3 years and 3 and a half years, respectively.
She enjoys reading books, trying out new cuisines, fashion, yoga, scuba diving (PADI Rescue diver), football (soccer), biking in the countryside, travel, and the beach, among other things.
She is opinionated, headstrong, adventurous and uncompromising.
An aspiring writer who finds satisfaction in sharing her thoughts, ideas, opinions and experiences.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Moira_G_Gallaga
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6453989
Symptoms of a migraine are more severe than a regular headache. The Mayo Clinic describes this type of headache as lasting for several hours or even days accompanied by sensitivity to light, feelings of nausea, sensitivity to sound and possible vomiting. Many sufferers even experience blind spots, flashing lights, and tingling sensations in their arms and/or legs.
Just imagine trying to finish a day's work when your head is pounding. Migraines make easy everyday tasks more difficult because all the victim can do is focus on the throbbing. During very severe episodes, you will probably not be able to do anything at all. If you suffer from light and sound sensitivity during a migraine you would be better off isolating yourself in a dark room in utter silence.For some of us who suffer migraines, a door being opened and closed as gently as possible still sounds and feels like a drum banging beside our heads. As such, family members or people living with you must be aware of this so they don't make things worse for you.
There is no known cure for migraine headaches. This makes life challenging and unpleasant for those who have chronic migraines. Doctors can prescribe medications to help alleviate the pain and other symptoms, but waiting the headache out can be a very draining and excruciating experience. It is important to note that medicines to deal with the pain brought about by a migraine is more effective when it is taken before the migraine has become severe. You will need to know how to anticipate the onset of an attack and take your medication before its get more serious. It may not necessarily stop the migraine, but it may somewhat decrease its severity.
While experiencing a migraine headache can be a terrible, all-consuming feeling, there are certain triggers that you can watch out for and learn to avoid so you can minimize the onset of your migraines.
Stress is a huge trigger when it comes to migraine headaches. According to WebMD, when a person undergoes a stressful experience, the brain releases a set of chemicals to combat the strain. Even though the brain is trying to fight the headache, these chemicals often makes it worse.
This is why it is so important for those who are susceptible to migraines to learn how to be calm and deal with stress. With less stress, the frequency of migraine occurrences might diminish. Being less frazzled does not necessarily mean that these painful headaches will go away. Thus, it is still important to look out for other factors in your life that might be causing migraines as well.
Another migraine trigger happens to involve what you eat or drink. Some doctors believe that migraines can be helped by controlling diet. Offenders include cheese, alcohol, caffeine, peanuts, tea, non-aged meats, wine, chocolates etc. We may love these things, but is it worth the constant headache? No, it is not. Dietary triggers for migraines are usually unique to each person. What can trigger a migraine in one person does not necessarily trigger a migraine in another person. You might need to do a bit of trial and error to figure out what are your specific dietary triggers, but it will be worth the effort as this will allow you to avoid food and drinks that are sure to cause a migraine attack.
Diet and stress are not the only causes of migraines, though. Sleep patterns, light sensitivity, hormones, physical exertion, and much more can contribute. Since these are aspects of life that we cannot escape at times, it is imperative to learn to identify these factors and manage them as much as possible.
In the end, migraine headaches might beat us down at times, but it is in our power to be cautious and be able to manage it. There is no way to completely make these headaches disappear, but lessening the severity and frequency is a very real possibility by learning how to identify the triggers, adjust your lifestyle so as to avoid those triggers and developing methods to help you cope during the onset of a migraine attack.
Civil servant from the Philippine Foreign Service. Specializes in Protocol and served 3 Philippine Presidents as Presidential Protocol Officer. Had the opportunity to travel extensively as part of her work and the privilege of discovering and exploring new places, cultures and peoples. Also assigned along with her diplomat husband and son in Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles and Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. for 3 years and 3 and a half years, respectively.
She enjoys reading books, trying out new cuisines, fashion, yoga, scuba diving (PADI Rescue diver), football (soccer), biking in the countryside, travel, and the beach, among other things.
She is opinionated, headstrong, adventurous and uncompromising.
An aspiring writer who finds satisfaction in sharing her thoughts, ideas, opinions and experiences.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Moira_G_Gallaga
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6453989
What Causes Migraines? Learn 7 Things That Can Trigger a Painful Migraine By Dixon George
This is a question that many people seem to ask all the time. However, sometimes the doctor can never really give them a straight answer. Why? Because it is honestly hard to tell what is causing your migraines without doing a bunch of tests. However, below I have listed a partial list that might just cause them for you.
Now, for starters, there are a few people who get migraines from a single thing, or maybe 2 at the most. But, the vast majority of people who are sufferers, do not have any single trigger, or do not know what actually is causing this painful suffering.
Here is a partial list of what can potentially cause an attack:
- Bright lights: If you already have a sensitivity to light, being exposed to brighter than normal light may just cause you pain, and thus would trigger an attack.
- Loud noises: Like most sensory perception, they require the brain to tell you about them, anything that overloads the brain, such as an unusually loud noise, could bring on an attack. A example of a loud noise could be loud music that you are not accustomed to, or a siren from a fire engine, or ambulance going down the street.
- Certain smells: Now, this does not mean smells that you like, but most often smells that irritate you, such as foul odors, or really strong perfume. When it does come to smells, it actually might be an allergic reaction to something in that smell that is triggering it.
- Alcohol: Alcohol is a known diuretic, and with the loss of body fluids causes a "hang over", this is where the brain loses enough fluid to shrink in size just enough to pull on the membrane keeping it attached to the skull. This is the cause of the pain in a hangover. This can trigger a migraine, which is all together a different kind of pain.
- Tension headaches: These types of headaches are called tension, because it feels like your head is being squished between something, or like there is a rubber band wrapped around it. This might actually trigger a migraine, or even be an onset symptom that you are about to get one. This one is rather tricky to figure out.
- Foods containing MSG: This is more or less an allergic reaction to MSG more than anything. This is your body telling you to stay away from this kind of thing.
- Foods containing nitrates: There is something in foods such as bacon, hot dogs, and salami that is triggering your pain. Again, most likely this is an allergic reaction of some sort.
Now, your question before was: "What causes migraines?", well, this should answer your questions a little bit better. However, one thing to remember is this; everyone who experiences these, do not necessarily all have the same trigger, everyone is different, so most peoples triggers could be different as well.
If you are experiencing one, or have in the past, then I would advice seeking out medical help to resolve this, there is no reason to suffer.
Learn more about causes of Migraine Headaches and free information for treating Migraine Headaches go here.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dixon_George
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3521620
Now, for starters, there are a few people who get migraines from a single thing, or maybe 2 at the most. But, the vast majority of people who are sufferers, do not have any single trigger, or do not know what actually is causing this painful suffering.
Here is a partial list of what can potentially cause an attack:
- Bright lights: If you already have a sensitivity to light, being exposed to brighter than normal light may just cause you pain, and thus would trigger an attack.
- Loud noises: Like most sensory perception, they require the brain to tell you about them, anything that overloads the brain, such as an unusually loud noise, could bring on an attack. A example of a loud noise could be loud music that you are not accustomed to, or a siren from a fire engine, or ambulance going down the street.
- Certain smells: Now, this does not mean smells that you like, but most often smells that irritate you, such as foul odors, or really strong perfume. When it does come to smells, it actually might be an allergic reaction to something in that smell that is triggering it.
- Alcohol: Alcohol is a known diuretic, and with the loss of body fluids causes a "hang over", this is where the brain loses enough fluid to shrink in size just enough to pull on the membrane keeping it attached to the skull. This is the cause of the pain in a hangover. This can trigger a migraine, which is all together a different kind of pain.
- Tension headaches: These types of headaches are called tension, because it feels like your head is being squished between something, or like there is a rubber band wrapped around it. This might actually trigger a migraine, or even be an onset symptom that you are about to get one. This one is rather tricky to figure out.
- Foods containing MSG: This is more or less an allergic reaction to MSG more than anything. This is your body telling you to stay away from this kind of thing.
- Foods containing nitrates: There is something in foods such as bacon, hot dogs, and salami that is triggering your pain. Again, most likely this is an allergic reaction of some sort.
Now, your question before was: "What causes migraines?", well, this should answer your questions a little bit better. However, one thing to remember is this; everyone who experiences these, do not necessarily all have the same trigger, everyone is different, so most peoples triggers could be different as well.
If you are experiencing one, or have in the past, then I would advice seeking out medical help to resolve this, there is no reason to suffer.
Learn more about causes of Migraine Headaches and free information for treating Migraine Headaches go here.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dixon_George
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3521620
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