What You Need To Know About Living With Migraines
Updated: Feb 25, 2022
Written by: Pia King, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
A migraine is a neurological condition that causes moderate to severe recurring headaches and related symptoms. They affect about 38 million Americans each year. I’m one of 38 million courageous individuals that battles this chronic debilitating pain on a regular basis. The duration and frequency vary widely. They can last for a few hours or several days. Individuals can also experience nausea and visual sensations called an aura that usually starts before the headache.
Unfortunately, the causes are still unknown, but are thought to be partially hereditary. They can occur at any age, but often begin during adolescence, and peak between 30 and 40. There is no known cure, but medical treatment and home remedies can help make your symptoms less frequent and severe.
Consider these ideas:
1. Get diagnosed. There is no lab test to determine if you have migraines. However, your GP or a neurologist can discuss your family history and rule out other causes.
2. Consider other medication or medical devices. Migraines can be treated with a wide range of pharmaceuticals. In addition to CGRP drugs, that may include triptans, antidepressants, and medicines for nausea and seizures. There are also a variety of devices that work by stimulating your nerves.
3. Seek urgent care. Migraines rarely cause lasting harm, but some headaches require immediate attention. Call 911 or go to an emergency room if the pain is debilitating or you have neurological symptoms, like slurred speech and blurred vision.
4. Rest before and after. Avoid physical activity during an attack. You may also be sensitive to light and sounds, so try to lie down in a dark, quiet room. When you’re back on your feet, ease back into your regular activities.
5. Apply heat or ice. Place cold or warm compresses on the back of your neck or across your forehead. Cold temperatures numb the area, while heat relaxes stiff muscles.
6. Massage your temples. Gently rubbing the area between your eyes and ears can loosen your muscles too. Go slowly and stop if touching the area makes you feel worse.
7. Change your diet. Certain foods can also be troublesome. That may include aged cheeses, baked goods with yeast, chocolate, and anything with MSG, nitrates, or aspartame.
8. Drink water. Dehydration will aggravate any headache. Sip water or herbal tea, and steer clear of alcohol for a while.
9. Work out. While moving around during an attack will make you feel worse, it’s important to exercise in between. Physical activity builds your strength and helps fight inflammation.
10. Be consistent. Stick to a regular schedule. You’re more likely to get adequate sleep and avoid skipped meals if you establish daily routines.
When it comes to migraines, it can take time to discover a treatment plan that’s effective for you. Follow your doctor’s recommendations and let them know about any other methods you use to avoid any harmful interactions.
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Pia King, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Pia King, is a holistic social worker, author, executive producer and radio talk show host, Reiki and aromatherapist enthusiast. Her core belief is that “The Almighty Can Not Reach You In A Spirit Of Fear”. She has dedicated her life to be open and willing to experience life in all of its amazing forms and not to be fearful of what others may think about your choices, decisions, ideas and dreams. She seeks to help individuals step out and into their greatness, so that they can experience their best potential lives. Pia is currently working on developing a series of online courses to assess one’s passions, hopes and dreams, and shed self-limiting beliefs. She is completing her PhD studies at the University of Sedona-University of Metaphysics. She is the executive producer and host of Living Life in Mid Life, which is a relaunch of her 3 years widely acclaimed radio show on The Amazing Women of Power Network. Her purpose is to help individuals find and own their space and voice.
