PUBLISHED ON September 5, 2021
Migraines are some of the most common headaches people suffer from. There are many different types of headaches, but migraines are the world’s 6th most disabling illness, according to the Migraine Institute.
Migraines affect more women than they do men, with an estimated 43% of sufferers being women and 18% men. There are also 4 million adults in the world experiencing chronic migraines daily.
Migraines are manageable, but there are also symptoms you’re able to spot tied to this headache condition.
What are the symptoms of migraines?
Migraine sufferers reported symptoms that include but may not be limited to the following:
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Aura with blurred vision
- Light and noise sensitivity
- Scalp tenderness
- Cold chills
Some pain associated with migraines also includes pulsating, moderate to severe pain and pain that increases when performing normal activities such as walking.
What factors could trigger a migraine?
Some key factors that may be the leading cause of migraine include hormonal changes, skipping meals, stress, sinus, medications and smoking.
How to prevent migraines where possible
Migraines cannot always be avoided, but there are some things that could accelerate or trigger them in the first place.
- What you eat – Certain foods may trigger a migraine in some people.
- Bright light and eye strain – Suffering from eye strain (astigmatism) can also cause migraines.
- Lack of sleep – Not getting enough rest can result in the development of a migraine.
- Dehydration – Not being sufficiently hydrated can lead to a migraine when you least expect it.
Treatment options for migraines
OTC or over-the-counter medications are common treatments for migraines. OTCs can include NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), paracetamol or aspirin.
Other treatments include using special instruments such as seen with sTMS (single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation.)
There are also other natural ways to help cope with migraine and these include:
Chiropractic adjustments
Tension can build up within the muscles, and it can affect the entire musculoskeletal system. Muscle tightness can be a result of stress, bad posture or anxiety. Without realizing the difference, people may tend to experience more headaches during those.
Chiropractors specialize in the nervous and musculoskeletal system, and they perform specific adjustments targeted to relieve tension in the back.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy uses the potency of natural essential oils sourced from plants, tree bark and leaves to complement health. In the case of migraines, aromatherapy can be used as part of massage therapy or diffused to create a calming and relaxing environment.
Massage therapy
Chiropractors also use massage therapy which reduces tension and knots associated. When there is less muscle tension, it could lower the onset of migraines.
Breathing exercise
Breathing exercises have various benefits. Certain breathing techniques like Ujjayi breath are one of many that help the body elevate dopamine. Dopamine is a natural pain reliever, and when taking deep diaphragmatic breaths, it helps increase these relaxing hormones while lowering stress hormones.
Next time you’re faced with a potential migraine, try some of these tips to help lower the impact or you can also visit our Brampton Chiropractor clinic for consultation.
Refs:
https://www.themigraineinstitute.com/migraine-overview/prevalence-of-migraines/#
https://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/migraines-headaches-migraines
