Home

Chronic headaches causing serious pain which can last for a long period of time up to several days are called migraines. Pain is sometimes so strong that it does not let a person to continue their everyday activities. Migraines can cause nausea, vomiting and increased light and sound sensitivity. A migraine attack can be preceded by such symptoms as blind spots, flashes of light or pricking in the limbs.

Unfortunately cure for migraine has not been invented yet. But still there is a variety of medicines that can weaken the symptoms and make the attacks less frequent. Choice of treatment is very individual. It is a good idea to consult a doctor in order to find a good combination of medicines and procedures to help you fight the disease. Also it is usually necessary to make certain changes in a lifestyle.

Predisposition to migraines usually declares itself in the first half of life. If necessary measures to fight symptoms are not taken an attack can last from four to seventy two hours. The frequency of attacks is individual; they can occur several times a months or once a month or only several times a year.

Usually a migraine is accompanied by the following symptoms: pain in one or both sides of a head; the headache is pulsating or throbbing; any physical activity increases pain; nausea and sometimes vomiting; increased light and sound sensitivity.

Though there is no way a migraine can be completely cured it is necessary to see a doctor and consult about the treatment which will at least help to make the symptoms tolerable. The doctor may need a record of your headaches history to make the right decisions. Also you should visit your doctor if you notice any change in the pattern of your migraine attacks.

Causes of migraines are still not clear. But there are certain factors that may provoke the attacks. Some of these factors are as follows:

- women may have migraine attacks when hormonal changes take place, for example during periods, pregnancy, menopause or taking of hormonal medications;

- certain kinds of foods can provoke migraine attacks, among them are alcohol, aged cheese, chocolate; caffeine; salty food;

- very often stress can cause an attack;

- intense physical exertion;

- certain medicines can also provoke migraine.

If you have desire to make migraines less frequent you may want to make certain changes in you lifestyle. First of all you need to avoid factors causing attacks, for example reconsider your diet. Also regular physical exercises help to reduce the risk of migraines.