Let's discuss about Migraine?

Migraines are a common type of headache. They are recurring headaches that tend to come in cycles. While some people experience migraines only once, others have them for many years. There are many different causes of migraines, which can make them difficult to treat.

Although no two migraine attacks look the same, they usually involve intense pain on one side of the head and nausea as well as other symptoms such as sensitivity to light and sound, vomiting, or diarrhea. Migraines cause intense throbbing pain in one side of the head or face. This may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting or a general sense of discomfort in the rest of the body. A migraine attack may last from several minutes up to several hours – it depends on the individual and their particular circumstances.

The exact cause is not known but there are thought to be certain triggers: stress, fatigue, eating certain foods (such as chocolate), missing certain essential nutrients (such as iron), changes in weather patterns, alcohol consumption, hormonal changes at certain times of the month etc..

As with most headaches, you can take steps to prevent them from becoming so painful that they reduce your quality of life. Read on to learn more about what causes migraines and how you can manage them if they strike you often or become particularly severe.

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Source

What are the symptoms of a migraine?

Migraines are caused by inflammation of the brain. Typically, they affect the trigeminal nerve, a cranial nerve that starts in the brain stem and connects the brain to parts of the face, nose, and throat.

The trigeminal nerve is responsible for many functions such as the sense of taste and smell, swallowing, speaking, and facial movement. When the trigeminal nerve is inflamed, the person may experience a range of symptoms that may include nausea and vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, sensitivity to odours, disorientation, pain on one side of the head, a pulsating, throbbing feeling in the affected area, increased sensitivity to heat, increased sensitivity to cold, and pain in the eye muscles. A migraine can be made worse by stress and certain foods.

How do you get a migraine?

Migraines are often hereditary, so if you have a family member who has the same type of migraine, you are at a higher risk of getting one yourself. There are many other factors that can lead to a migraine, including bad habits, stress, and certain foods such as chocolate.

A migraine can also be triggered by a change in the weather, missing a meal, or interacting with certain people (such as someone who has an infectious disease).

A chronic migraine often develops over time due to changes in your body that make you more likely to get a migraine, such as increased age, being overweight, or having a family history of migraine. Moreover, environmental factors such as stress can also affect your likelihood of getting a migraine.

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[Source(https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-touches-her-head-in-pain-7034805/

Risk factors for migraine headaches)

A family history of migraines - If a close relative has had a migraine, you are at a higher risk of getting one yourself. When you are young - While migraines often become less frequent as you get older, some people experience them even into their 60s and 70s. Race - Caucasians are more likely to experience migraines than other races. Sex - Women are more likely to have migraines than men.

Nutrition and diet in migraines

A diet low in salt, sugar and saturated fats has been shown to reduce the risk of developing a migraine by up to 50% compared with a normal diet. Studies have also shown that people who consume more fibre and vitamins such as magnesium, B-6, and zinc are less likely to get migraines. Mild reductions in iron, zinc and calcium are often found in people with migraines.

Exercise and stress management in migraines

Regular aerobic exercise raises levels of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, and can help to prevent migraines in susceptible people. Stress is a risk factor for headaches, but it can also be helpful for people with migraines. Learning to manage your stress levels can help to avoid having a migraine.

Summing up

Migraines are caused by an inflammatory process in the brain, and they can be managed by a suitable diet and regular aerobic exercise. To prevent a migraine, consume a diet low in salt, sugar and saturated fats, as well as iron, zinc and calcium, and take regular supplements.

To manage a migraine when it strikes, apply icepacks, relax and rest, and drink plenty of fluids. Migraines can be difficult to understand and manage, but with a few lifestyle changes, you can prevent them from interfering with your life.

• Links Consulted

(1). https://www.healthline.com/health/migraine#what-it-feels-like

(2). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/5005-migraine-headaches

(3). https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/diseases-conditions/migraine

(4). https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/migraines



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