MIGRAINES

Wow I just realised it's been more than 1 yr since my last post... The reason for this post is I am at work and can't concentrate.. This post is just to educate about Migraines..

Am currently at work and I am suffering from an excruciating migraine.. If only there were a cure for migraines... However i have tried so many different drugs to stabilise my migraines, but yet to find one which helps!! Immigran use to do wonders for me then all of a sudden my body got immune to it.. My friend has recommended Excedrin... I have yet to get it, but will try and obtain some and if it works keep a whole draw full.. :) (end up as a druggie)

Migraine is a neurological syndrome characterized by altered bodily experiences, painful headaches, and nausea. It is a common condition which affects women more frequently than men.

The typical migraine headache is one-sided and pulsating, lasting 4 to 72 hours. Accompanying complaints are nausea and vomiting, and a heightened sensitivity to bright lights (photophobia) and noise (hyperacusis). Approximately one third of people who experience migraines get a preceding aura, in which a patient may sense a strange light or unpleasant smell.

Although the exact cause of migraine remains unknown, the most widespread theory is that it is a disorder of the serotonergic control system.

For those whom are unsure what Migraines are, the following criteria will help;

- On one side of the head
- Pulsating or throbbing
- Aggravated by routine physical activity, such as climbing stairs
- Inhibits or prohibits usual activity
- Accompanied by nausea or vomiting
- Accompanied by sensitivity to light and sound

Characteristics
Serotonin is a chemical in your brain that can constrict blood vessels and stimulate pain receptors. Levels of serotonin are unusually high just before a migraine and unusually low during the migraine attack.

Attacks can occur any time, day or night, though they often occur first thing in the morning. Routine activity, exercise or slight head movement makes the pain worse. Some patients report that the simple act of trying to lift their heads off the pillow results in excruciating pain. Symptoms may appear up to several hours before the headache, or the pain may strike without any warning. Some people feel irritable during migraine attacks and seek solitude, often in a darkened room. Following an attack, many people feel washed out and listless.

Trigger

A migraine trigger is any factor that, on exposure or withdrawal, leads to the development of an acute migraine headache. Triggers may be categorized as behavioral, environmental, infectious, dietary, chemical, or hormonal. In the medical literature, these factors are known as 'precipitants.'

Migraine attacks may be triggered by:
Allergic reactions
Bright lights, loud noises, and certain odors or perfumes
Physical or emotional stress
Changes in sleep patterns
Smoking or exposure to smoke
Skipping meals
Alcohol
Menstrual cycle fluctuations, birth control pills, hormone fluctuations during the menopause transition
Tension headaches
Foods containing tyramine (red wine, aged cheese, smoked fish, chicken livers, figs, and some beans), monosodium glutamate (MSG) or nitrates (like bacon, hot dogs, and salami)
Other foods such as chocolate, nuts, peanut butter, avocado, banana, citrus, onions, dairy products, and fermented or pickled foods.

I hope the info was beneficial.. I am still bored and still have my migraine... SIGH!!!