Friday, June 27, 2008

Migraine Headache, Do You Have It?

I usually get this headache from time to time. I had my recent health check up couple of days ago and my doctor said I got migraine. So, here are the informations I got about it. Hope it helps for those who have it too. Gosh...the foods that are to be avoided are all my favorites. I was wondering if I give up all those, what will I eat? LOL! bland soup and wheat bread? :).

What is migraine and how does it differ from other headaches?

Migraine is an intense, throbbing, typically one-sided headache that often includes nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, and sensitivity to sound. According to many migraine sufferers, the pain and symptoms from a migraine headache are more intense than the pain and symptoms of a common headache.

Some people may have visual symptoms before the headache, such as flashing lights or wavy lines, called an aura.

Migraine attacks typically last for hours or, rarely, for more than a day, and they can return frequently. The severity and frequency of migraine attacks may vary.

Based on your symptoms, your doctor will decide whether you have migraine.

Who gets migraine?

Migraine headaches tend to occur in members of the same family. Both men and women get migraine, but it is more common in women.

What may trigger a migraine attack?

Certain things are thought to trigger migraines atacks in some people. Some of these triggers are:
  • certain foods and beverages (e.g. cheese, chocolate, citrus fruit, caffeine, alcohol)
  • stress
  • change in a behavior (e.g. under/oversleeping; missing a meal; change in diet)
  • hormonal changes in women (e.g. menstruation)
You may be able to prevent migraine attacks or diminish their frequency if you understand what specifically triggers your attacks. Keeping a headache diary may help you identify and monitor the possible migraine triggers you encounter. Once the triggers are identified, you and your doctor can modify your treatment and lifestyle appropriately.

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