How to Treat Chronic Migraine
In addition to severe throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head, migraine sufferers may also experience nausea, vomiting, dizziness, visual auras (flashing colourful lights, lines or shadows) and tingling in the face, hands or feet. They can also be extremely sensitive to sound, touch, smells and bright lights during a migraine attack.
The constant stress of wondering when the next attack may occur and the lack of understanding from colleagues and loved ones can also take a toll. Migraineurs are also more likely to suffer from depression.
What causes migraine
Doctors are not sure of the exact causes of migraine, but there is a genetic basis. If a close family member suffers from the condition, your chances of having migraine increase
What is chronic migraine?
Most people who suffer migraines have episodic migraines that last for a few hours and happen every now and again, or at most once or twice a month. The unlucky 2% of the world’s population with chronic migraine suffers from headaches at least 15 days a month and the attacks tend to last longer. This makes living a normal life very challenging.
How can I reduce the number of migraine attacks I have?
Each migraine sufferer has their own individual triggers, so keeping a journal to track activities and events during a migraine attack will help you to เล่น UFABET ผ่านมือถือ สะดวกทุกที่ ทุกเวลา identify your triggers. Over time you can avoid them and reduce the number of attacks occurring. There are also free smartphone apps such as “migraine buddy” that can help you to keep track of your condition.
Common triggers include:
- Lack of sleep
- Caffeine
- Stress
- Changes in hormones during menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause
- Alcohol
- Skipping meals
- Birth control pills
- Changes in temperature, humidity and barometric pressure
When should I see a doctor?
You should consult your doctor if:
- You experience a migraine for the first time
- You have experienced migraines before but they have increased in severity or frequency
- The attack is severe and comes on suddenly, like a “clap of thunder”.
Depending on the findings, your doctor may also recommend further investigation:
Common ones include:
- Blood tests to test for blood vessel problems and infections
- Computerised tomography (CT) scan or Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to create detailed cross-sectional images of the brain. This helps doctors diagnose tumours, infections, brain damage, bleeding in the brain and other possible medical problems that may be causing headaches
- Spinal tap (lumbar puncture) for suspected infections, bleeding in the brain