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Unless you are a migraine sufferer, it is practically impossible to understand what it really means to endure this type of suffering. Migraines are not merely headaches. While a migraine generates inside the head, that is where the similarities end.
Light and noise, even to the smallest degree, can be intolerable. Extreme nausea is common. While the migraine begins in the brain, it sweeps through the body and can thoroughly debilitate its victim. The affects of a migraine are completely consuming, and living with this chronic pain can be torture, both physically and emotionally .
While there is a virtual plethora of medications, naturally remedies and pain management techniques available, there is no absolute cure for migraines. Migraines do not always respond to medical treatment. Different treatments can be effective for different people. But for many migraine sufferers, medications bring little in the way of relief.
Migraines can begin at any age and may continue throughout a person's life. On the other hand, migraines can end as suddenly as they began, with no known reason for their onset or their final episode. Often, however, it is possible to target some of the migraine "triggers," and prevent or minimize their frequency.
Developing a strong, working relationship with your doctor is paramount for migraine sufferers. Finding a physician that truly understands your plight can be more difficult than with many medical conditions. Perhaps this is due to how difficult migraines can be to treat. Some physicians seem to follow a "three strikes and you're out" approach to treating the migraine patient. If the first treatment doesn't work, another approach will be offered. If this doesn't prove effective, he may present a third treatment plan. After this, it is not uncommon for the patient to feel as though the doctor becomes apathetic. This can be very discouraging for someone who is dealing with a very traumatic illness. Keep searching until you find a doctor that is willing to hang in there with you for the long-haul.
Often, a physician will ask migraine patients to keep a journal of their diet and other routines. If your doctor suggests this, you should be diligent in working with him and keeping an accurate diary. No doctor can help you if you do not give your full cooperation. A journal can be very helpful in targeting any allergies or other lifestyle patterns that may be causing or contributing to your migraines.
Other possible triggers can include:
sensitivity to light
strong odors, including perfumes, incense or air fresheners
alcoholic beverages
lack of sleep or extreme shifts in sleep patterns
hunger (waiting too long before eating or in between meals)
extended time watching television, a computer monitor, or driving
Be aware of your lifestyle, it can offer many clues to possible migraine triggers. In addition to identifying and eliminating triggers, there are a number of ways migraine sufferers can curtail the frequency of migraines. The most important, and possibly the most difficult, is reducing stress.
There is no doubt that stress is a major factor in many health-related issues, migraines included. Take stock of where stress can be reduced at home and at work. It may be as simple as creating a more soothing office environment or cutting back on obligations that have you over-extended. Don't underestimate the value of even the smallest stress reduction.
Create regular relaxation techniques for yourself. Establish a daily opportunity for a soothing bath, yoga, meditation, or even listening to relaxing music. Set aside a specific amount of "quiet time" at the same time, each day. Your body and mind will begin to respond to regular positive treatment.
Routine exercise can be an enormous benefit to migraine sufferers. This doesn't necessarily mean a grueling daily workout at the local gym. A fifteen minute walk each day, proceeded or followed by fifteen minutes of stretches can work wonders.
It is possible to head off a severe migraine by taking measures early on. At the onset of a migraine, find a quiet, dark place. Do not feel obligated to answer the phone or the doorbell. A cool cloth across the forehead can help some people, while a very warm cloth offers more relief to others. If the headache might be caused from not eating, eat something light before lying down.
Most importantly, never give up hope. New treatments and medications are constantly being introduced for migraines. For the latest information, stay in touch with your physician and discuss what might be right for you.
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