Migraine- the head pricking headache

Ads of migraine painkillers are prominent on television channels; hence we can deduce that migraine is a common disorder. Reports show that, this throbbing pain is experienced largely by people in the age group of 35-45 years. Compared to men, women are more frequently affected due to their drastic hormonal changes.

Usually you would begin to feel vaguely sick a few days before the migraine. The symptoms could be piercing pain in the arms and legs, irritability, food cravings, tiredness or high sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine induces severe pain in the head and is usually followed by nausea.

Migraine Causes

• It has been proven that consuming certain kind of food items can trigger migraines. The food list includes – red wine, chocolates, cheese and MSG.
• Hormonal imbalances – As mentioned above an imbalance in hormones is the common reason for migraines in women. Women are likely to experience it during their first menses, during pregnancy or post-delivery.
• Hectic routines and stress 
• Insufficient water intake. Skipping meals
• Irregular sleeping patterns
• Changes in climate

Symptoms of Migraine

• Throbbing pain in the head that lasts for up 2-3 days
• Severe headache usually on one side
• Feelings of nausea or vomiting
• Increased sensitivity to light, smell and sound

Diagnosis

There is no specific test for the diagnosis of migraine. You need to consult a head and neck doctor or an ENT surgeon who will conduct a series of tests to determine whether the headache is caused by any other underlying illnesses.

Treatment

The treatment for migraine is simple – doctors usually prescribe painkillers. 

• Over-the-counter medicines – drugs like paracetamol, ibuprofen and aspirin are effective in relieving migraine symptoms. But if you experience frequent headaches, do not do a self-diagnosis but instead get checked by an expert. Preventive medicines are also available for treating migraines.
• Botox treatment – Don’t be surprised, you read right. Botox injections help treat the imploding aches in the forehead and at the back of the neck. Botox injections are usually administered for those who have migraines induced due to stress and tension. Also note that this option does not work if you are experiencing the pain on top of the head, behind the ears, between the eyes or on the cheeks. Also pregnant women and Myopathic and Neuromuscular disorders, do not qualify for this treatment. 
• Cognitive Behavioral therapy – During a CBT treatment, a professional therapist will help the patient manage and prevent negative thoughts and behavior. Negativity plays a key part in building anxiety and stress which eventually cause migraine. 
• Holistic approaches – Relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises and stretches have shown to ease the symptoms. Acupuncture is also a highly sought-after treatment for migraine. However, it is best to discuss with your physician before you try acupuncture.

Since prevention is better than cure, it is wise to take measures to prevent a migraine rather than popping pills for the same. If you experience headaches on and off, you could make recordings to find out what the trigger is. This would help prevent migraines in future.