MIGRAINE

What is it?

There are three types of migraines that people suffer from the most:
Classic: in this case the headache is preceeded by an aura or visual disturbanc
Common: in this type there is no aura
Cluster: this type is more painful and may occur daily for weeks or months

Who gets it?

Classic and common sufferers tend to be women at about 70%, while cluster sufferers tend to be 90% men.

Most sufferers find that there is a close family member with one except cluster sufferers.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms include a headache that starts as a dull pain usually on one side of the that builds to a throbbing pain. Other symptoms may include but are not limited to:

• nausea/vomiting
• sensitivity to light, sound, smells
• aura: blind spots, flashing lights, tunnel vision...
• constipation/diarrhea
• cold
• yawnning
• excessive sweating
• nasal drainage
• mood changes
• intellectual disturbance (concentration)
• numbness

When should I see the Doctor?

If you feel you have any of the symptoms listed it is important to see your doctor to get a proper diagnosis. If you have suddenly started to have severe or incapacitating headaches it is also important to see a doctor too rule out any other potential medical situations.

What is the treatment?

Preventative medications must be taken regularly, as prescribed, in order to be effective. Prescription medications taken as needed are often most effective if taken early.

Second hand smoke can be a trigger which can be avoided.

What can I do to help myself?

Some of the treatments include:

• sleep in a dark quiet room (at onset of migraine)
• acupuncture
• cold air
• excercise
• heat packs to the back of the neck
• presure or massage to the head and neck
• Tibetan incense (special formula)
• yoga
• biofeedback