DR. WALKER

What are Migraines?

Migraine headaches are a type of headache that is characterized by moderate to severe throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head. They are often accompanied by other symptoms such as sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and vomiting. Migraines can last for several hours or days and can significantly disrupt a person's daily life. Some people may experience warning signs before a migraine, such as visual disturbances or tingling sensations in the limbs. Migraines are believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

What are the different types of Migraines?

Migraine without aura: This is the most common type of migraine, and it occurs without any warning signs or symptoms. The headache is usually on one side of the head, and it can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.

Migraine with aura: This type of migraine is characterized by sensory disturbances that occur before the onset of the headache. These disturbances can include visual changes, such as flashes of light or blind spots, as well as tingling sensations in the face or limbs.

Chronic migraine: This is a type of migraine that occurs on 15 or more days per month for at least three months. It can be either with or without aura.

Vestibular migraine: This type of migraine is characterized by dizziness, vertigo, and balance problems. It can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.

Hemiplegic migraine: This is a rare type of migraine that can cause temporary paralysis on one side of the body. It can also cause speech difficulties and vision problems.

Menstrual migraine: This type of migraine occurs in women around the time of their menstrual cycle. It can be either with or without aura.

What are other common types of headaches?

❖ Tension headache: This is the most common type of headache and is usually caused by stress or tension in the muscles of the head and neck. It is characterized by a dull, aching pain that can be felt on both sides of the head.

❖ Cluster headache: This is a rare type of headache that is characterized by intense, excruciating pain on one side of the head. It is often accompanied by tearing, redness, and swelling of the eye on the affected side.

❖ Sinus headache: This type of headache is caused by inflammation or congestion in the sinuses. It is characterized by a dull, constant pain in the forehead, cheeks, or bridge of the nose.

❖ Rebound headache: This type of headache is caused by overuse of pain medication. It is characterized by a constant, dull pain that can be felt on both sides of the head.

❖ Hormone headache: This type of headache is caused by hormonal changes, such as those that occur during menstruation or menopause. It is characterized by a dull, throbbing pain that can be felt on both sides of the head.

What are the symptoms of migraines?

Migraines are a type of headache that can cause a range of symptoms. Some of the common symptoms of migraines include:
· Throbbing or pulsating pain on one or both sides of the head
· Sensitivity to light, sound, or odors
· Nausea and vomiting
· Blurred vision or visual disturbances, such as seeing flashing lights or zigzag lines
· Lightheadedness or dizziness
· Fatigue or weakness
· Difficulty concentrating
· Tingling or numbness in the face or limbs
· Mood changes, such as irritability or depression.

What are the risk factors of migraines?

Family history: Migraines tend to run in families, so if one or both parents have a history of migraines, their children are more likely to experience them as well.

Age and gender: Women are 3 times more likely than men to experience migraines. Migraines can begin at any age, but they often begin in adolescence or early adulthood.

Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes can trigger migraines in women. Women are more likely to experience migraines during pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause.

Certain medical conditions: People with certain medical conditions, such as depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, and sleep disorders, are more likely to experience migraines.

Certain medications: Certain medications, such as hormonal birth control, vasodilators, and nitroglycerin, can trigger migraines in some people.

Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental factors, such as bright lights, loud noises, and strong smells, can trigger migraines in some people.

Dietary factors: Consuming certain foods and drinks, such as caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods, can trigger migraines in some people.

What are some common triggers of migraines?

Migraines can be triggered by a variety of factors, and these triggers can vary from person to person. Some common triggers of migraines include:

Certain foods or food additives (such as aged cheese, chocolate, caffeine, and MSG)
Changes in weather or barometric pressure
Neck and shoulder tension or poor posture.
Hormonal changes (such as during menstruation or pregnancy)
Alcohol and caffeine consumption
Physical exertion or overexertion
Changes in sleep patterns
Bright lights or loud noises
Strong smells or perfumes
Certain medications
Emotional stress
Dehydration

What is the prodrome (preheadache) of migraines?

The prodrome of migraines refers to a group of symptoms that can occur before the onset of a migraine headache. These symptoms can begin hours or even days before the headache starts, and they can vary from person to person. Some common prodrome symptoms include:

Mood changes: Some people may experience mood changes, such as irritability, depression, or euphoria, before a migraine.

Fatigue: Some people may feel unusually tired or lethargic before a migraine.

Food cravings: Some people may experience intense cravings for certain foods before a migraine.

Neck stiffness: Some people may experience stiffness or pain in their neck or shoulders before a migraine.

Increased urination: Some people may experience an increase in urination before a migraine.

Visual disturbances: Some people may experience visual disturbances, such as flashes of light or blind spots, before a migraine.

Sensory changes: Some people may experience changes in their sense of smell, taste, or touch before a migraine.

What is a postdrome or migraine “hangover”?

The postdrome of migraines refers to a set of symptoms that can occur after the migraine headache has subsided. Some common postdrome symptoms include:
➢ Fatigue: Many people feel exhausted or drained after a migraine, even if they slept well during the attack.

➢ Mood changes: Some people may experience mood changes, such as depression or euphoria, after a migraine.

➢ Difficulty concentrating: Some people may have trouble focusing or thinking clearly after a migraine.

➢ Dizziness: Some people may feel dizzy or lightheaded after a migraine.

➢ Sensitivity to light and sound: Some people may continue to experience sensitivity to light and sound after a migraine.

➢ Scalp tenderness: Some people may experience tenderness or soreness in their scalp or temples after a migraine.

➢ Cognitive impairment: Some people may experience cognitive impairment, such as difficulty with memory or problem-solving, after a migraine.

What are complications of migraines?

Some potential complications of migraines include:
✓ Chronic migraines: SSome people may experience chronic migraines, which are defined as having at least 15 headache days per month for 3 months or more, with at least 8 of those days being migraines.

✓ Medication overuse headache:S Taking certain medications, such as triptans or opioids, too frequently can lead to medication overuse headaches, which are headaches that occur more frequently and are more severe than the original migraines.

✓ Depression and anxiety: Migraines can be emotionally taxing, and they have been linked to an increased risk of depression and anxiety.

✓ Sleep disturbances: SMigraines can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to insomnia or other sleep disturbances.

✓ Chronic pain: Migraines can cause chronic pain, particularly in the head, neck, and shoulders.

✓ Work and school absences: SMigraines can be severe enough to cause people to miss work or school, which can affect their productivity and educational opportunities.

Can magnesium help with migraines?

Magnesium is a mineral that has been shown to help prevent migraines by relaxing blood vessels and preventing spasms. Studies have shown that magnesium oxide can be effective in preventing migraines, particularly in people with low magnesium levels. Magnesium oxide is one form of magnesium supplement that is commonly used for migraines, as it is inexpensive and widely available. However, the effectiveness may vary from person to person, and some people may need higher doses or other forms of magnesium to see benefits.

Are there foods and supplements that could help?

Here are some foods that may decrease migraines:
1. Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce nausea and vomiting associated with migraines. It can be consumed fresh, powdered, or as a tea.

2. Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts have anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.

3. Low-tyramine foods: Tyramine, a naturally occurring amino acid, can trigger migraines in some people. Low-tyramine foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood may be helpful.

4. Water: Dehydration can trigger migraines, so it is essential to stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.

5. Moringa: Moringa contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help alleviate headaches and migraines. Some people have reported a reduction in the frequency and severity of their migraines after taking Moringa supplements or drinking Moringa tea.

It is important to note that what works for one person may not work for another, and some foods can trigger migraines in some people.

What are alternative therapies for migraines?

Here are some alternative therapies that may be helpful for migraines:
1. Acupuncture: Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the body's natural healing processes. Some studies have shown that acupuncture may be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines.

2. Yoga and meditation: Yoga and meditation can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, which may be helpful in managing migraines. Some studies have shown that regular yoga and meditation practice can reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.

3. Biofeedback: Biofeedback involves using sensors to monitor physical responses such as muscle tension, heart rate, and breathing, and using that information to learn how to control those responses. Some studies have shown that biofeedback may be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines.

4. Massage therapy: Massage therapy can help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation, which may be helpful in managing migraines. Some studies have shown that regular massage therapy can reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.

5. Herbal remedies: Some herbs, such as butterbur and feverfew, have been traditionally used to prevent migraines.