Managing mild migraines?
Date
20 Jul 2024
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Understanding migraine triggers and treatment options
Migraines are a complex brain-based disorder involving interactions between the brain and cranial blood vessels. The basic cause of migraine headaches is an interaction between the brain and the cranial blood vessels, with inflammation and the release of neurotransmitters playing a significant role1.
Triggers of migraines
There are numerous environmental triggers for migraines, including:
- Alcohol
- Lack of sleep
- Dehydration
- Hunger
- Certain foods, e.g. chocolate, peanuts, citrus fruits, aged cheese, MSG
- Stress
- Hormonal changes, e.g. menstruation, pregnancy, menopause
- Strong smells, e.g. perfume, petrol, chemicals, smoke
- Changes in weather
- Loud noises
- Bright light or sunlight
- Muscular tension
Genetics also play a role in migraines, with the condition often running in families. It is believed that multiple genes contribute to the disorder, making it a complex genetic condition2.
Types of migraine headaches
There are two main types of migraines:
Common Migraine (Migraine without Aura): Characterised by throbbing pain on one side of the head, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, sound, and smell.
Classical Migraine (Migraine with Aura): Affects approximately 20-30% of people with migraines. Common aura symptoms include flashing lights, zigzag lines, blind spots, and difficulty focusing. The headache itself is similar to a common migraine3.
Treatment options
While it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional, some treatment options to explore include:
- Sleep: For many, sleeping off the migraine is the only effective solution.
- Identify Triggers: Avoiding known triggers can reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.
- Reduce Stress: Exercise and meditation can help manage stress, which is a common trigger.
- Dietary Changes: Adding foods rich in B2 (e.g., dairy, eggs, red meat) can be beneficial.
When to consult a Healthcare Professional
- If you suddenly start having migraines without a previous history.
- If your migraines increase in frequency or severity.
References
American Migraine Foundation. Top 10 Migraine Triggers and How to Deal with Them. Available from: https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/top-10-migraine-triggers/
Cleveland Clinic. Migraine: What It Is, Types, Causes, Symptoms & Treatments. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/5005-migraine-headaches
Mayo Clinic. Managing migraine: What’s right for me? Available from: https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-qa-managing-migraine-whats-right-for-me/
Healthline. Migraine: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Triggers, and More. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/migraine