Migraine Headaches can be Managed Effectively

If you have ever suffered from a migraine headache, you know very well just how debilitating this type of pain can be. For many migraine sufferers, it appears that life must stop every time the symptoms surface, making these headaches a major detriment to the everyday life of many people. The good news is that there are new treatment and prevention options available, so if you are suffering from frequent migraines, you might want to talk to your doctor about what you can do to manage your condition effectively. While no one is sure exactly what causes migraine headaches, it is thought that they might be linked to the blood vessels in the brain widening or narrowing. The result of this process may lead to the swelling and pain that is known as a migraine. It has also been shown that there may be a genetic link with this condition, but it is still not certain of how or why this link exists.

What does a Migraine Headache feel like?

Migraines can begin in a couple of different ways. For some, the headache begins with an aura, which can consist of dots, wavy lines or flashing lights in the edge of the line of vision with one eye. These auras will usually begin approximately 30 minutes prior to the onset of the migraine headache, and can be accompanied by a tingling or numbness in the arms or face. For others, the headache will begin with an intense throbbing on one side of the head. This pain may be followed with nausea or vomiting, and can be intensified by exposure to bright lights, certain odors or loud noises. Sometimes the pain will remain in one location, and other times it will alternate from side to side. It may be worse with movement, such as bending forward or even walking about.

Treatment of Migraines

The best treatment for a headache that has already started is to take an over the counter pain medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, lie down in a dark room, and place a cool compress over your forehead. Sleep is often the best medicine in a case like this. If over the counter remedies do not seem to take the edge off of the pain, your doctor can prescribe other types of medication that might be more effective for you. Many migraine sufferers have also found that the best way to treat a migraine headache is to prevent it in the first place. This includes avoiding the potential triggers of a headache, such as chocolate, red wine, some dairy products, MSG, and sleep deprivation. If you are suffering from frequent, debilitating migraine headaches, talk to your doctor today about your options in treatment and prevention of this painful condition.

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