Migraines
May 31, 2007
Twenty eight million people in America suffer from migraine headaches. Although prevention can decrease the frequency and severity of these headaches, these medications may provide an even greater benefit. Dr. Mom explains.
Approximately 28 million American suffer from migraine headaches. If you are one of the 28 million sufferers, you know how painfully debilitating these headaches can be. Recent research in laboratory mice has shown that migraines may also be linked with brain damage. Brain damage can occur when brain cells swell and become starved of oxygen. This type of damage also occurs with strokes and concussions.
Some migraine sufferers experience symptoms before the onset of a migraine, this is called "aura." Experiencing aura may give migraine sufferers time to take medicines that will prevent a full-blown migraine. However, most people experience no aura, not leaving any time for prevention medications. Different types of aura have been described by migraine sufferers.
They include:- Sparkling flashes of light
- Seeing colorful zigzag lines
- Blind spots
- Tingling, pins and needles sensation in the limbs
- Difficulty with coordination, speech and thoughts, inability to concentrate
- Problems with sense of smell or taste
- Reduced sensations of hypersensitivity to touch and feel
Migraines are triggered by a number of things and may be different for each person.
Some known triggers are:- Certain foods. Some common offenders are alcohol (especially beer and red wine); aged cheeses; chocolate; caffeine; pickled, fermented, or marinated foods; aspartame; monosodium glutamate. Skipping meals may also trigger migraines.
- Stress
- Bright lights and sun glare
- Unusual smells
- Physical factors - intense physical exertion; changes in sleep patterns
- Hormonal changes
- Change in weather, season, or altitude level
- Medications - certain medications can aggravate migraines
Researchers recommend using medicine for not only relief of pain, but to prevent a migraine. If you suffer with migraine headaches, see your primary care physician. New medications are available to help prevent migraines.
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