Chronic headaches are a problem that many people face. That is why many are interested in questions about why migraine occurs, what it is and whether effective treatment methods exist. Indeed, this disease is predominantly affected by young people, and sometimes even children.
Migraine: what is it and why does it occur?
Migraines are called attacks of severe headache, which are often accompanied by nausea and even vomiting. In addition, soreness, as a rule, is observed only on one side.
According to statistics, women aged 25 to 35 years are most affected by such a pathology. The mechanisms of the appearance of such a state are not well understood to date. Nevertheless, there is every reason to believe that the tendency to migraines is genetic and is transmitted mainly through the maternal line.
There are many factors that can trigger a headache. First of all, this group should include constant stress, increased anxiety and emotional overstrain. In addition, migraines often appear against the background of hormonal disorders and metabolic failure.
On the other hand, an attack of pain can be caused by malnutrition, in particular the use of foods rich in tyramine (nuts, coffee, cocoa, chocolate) and alcoholic beverages. In addition, a migraine head appears on the background of overheating or changes in weather conditions. Risk factors include noise, strong odors, and bright light.
Migraine: what is it and what are its symptoms?
Of course, the main sign of migraine is pain. But with such a pathology, there are some significant differences. Firstly, soreness occurs only in one half of the head (bilateral migraines are much less common). Secondly, the pain is severe, throbbing and significantly aggravated by tilting the head, physical or emotional stress. An attack can last from four hours to four days.
Often, the appearance of pain is preceded by some neurological symptoms. For example, some patients notice visual disturbances, in particular glare, image distortion, etc. Sometimes, short-term numbness of the limbs is also observed .
It should be noted that bright light, strong smell and noise can significantly increase pain. That is why patients during an attack instinctively seek to hide in a dark, quiet place, cover their heads with a towel.
Migraine: what is it and how to get rid of it?
Unfortunately, modern medicine does not have the means to permanently relieve headaches. Nevertheless, with the help of drugs and some techniques, the patient's condition can be significantly alleviated.
Non -steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used to relieve pain . Ibuprofen and paracetamol are considered effective. You need to take the medicine at the beginning of the attack - you should not endure pain. If possible, it is better to stay at home, create an environment suitable for relaxation. Cold or warm compresses help some patients.
Prevention of migraine comes down to eliminating contact with circumstances or conditions that provoke an attack of pain. For example, patients are advised to adjust their diet and observe the correct mode of work and rest. If the cause is stress or strong emotions, sedatives and antidepressants are used to prevent migraines. Sometimes therapy includes taking Flunarizin (a calcium channel blocker), anticonvulsants, beta-blockers, and other drugs that the doctor selects depending on the individual characteristics of the patient’s body and the nature of his attacks.