You might notice that you frequently have pounding headaches and think you’re just exhausted, how would you know if it’s not early symptoms of migraine?
According to Dr. Amaal Starling, a neurologist at the Mayo Clinic, there is a lot of stigma around migraine, that there’s nothing to worry about, and that it’s just a headache. “Yet, migraine is an inherited brain condition. Every individual is affected differently, and the severity of the disease varies widely.” Dr Amaal warns that it’s never a good idea for people to ignore signs of migraine no matter how mild.
The neurologist states that if you experience the following symptoms, you should seek medical help immediately because these are migraine symptoms. The symptoms include a sharp, pounding headache and your daily activities may be interfered with by this excruciating discomfort. “In addition, light and sound sensitivity, nausea, and vomiting can come with it.” The doctor continued to state that a migraine might appear extremely differently in each individual. “Prodrome symptoms, or the start of a migraine episode, can affect certain people. Constipation, mood swings, food cravings, stiff neck, excessive urination, or even frequent yawning are some of these subtle warning signs.”
Migraine is said to be a genetic disease, which means it is passed on through family genes, it also means anyone can have it, adults and children. Dr Amaal agrees with this claim, she states, “Certainly genetic and environmental factors play a role in the development of migraine disease. And since it is genetic, it is hereditary.”
According to the neurologist, other causes that trigger migraine attacks include hormonal changes, medications, alcohol, caffeine, stress, sensory stimulation, sleep changes, weather changes, and certain foods such as aged cheese and processed food.
The Association of Migraine Disorders suggested treatments and prevention techniques for migraines. There are, amongst many, two approaches involved, which according to the Association are; acute treatments, and preventive treatments.
Based on the report by the above Association, acute treatments are used when the migraine attack occurs. “FDA-approved acute migraine treatments, such as triptans, can significantly reduce or eliminate symptoms within two hours. However, these treatments are not universally safe or effective, and may yield better results from different medications.”
The Association above referred to a statement by the American Headache Society’s 2021 Consensus which stated that “preventive therapy is advised for those who have four or more headache days per month, people who are significantly disabled, or have headaches that interfere with everyday activities.”
Also see: This is how you can help someone with stroke symptoms
