Statistics from The National Headache Foundation have proven that as many as 28 million Americans suffer from migraine headaches. Those with this headache problem usually had started with the headaches anywhere from the age of 10 right up to 46. Migraines may also run in families.
More women than men will suffer from migraines, with approximately 25% suffering 4 or more attacks a month, approximately 35% will have 1-4 attacks, and approximately 40% will suffer 1, or less than 1 per month. These attacks can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days, or even longer. Studies have shown that pregnancy may reduce the number of migraine attacks. At least 60% of pregnant women with a history of migraines had fewer attacks during the last two trimesters of pregnancy.
Migraines, simply defined, are headaches that occur primarily on one side of the head, and are accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and a sensitivity to light.
There are two classifications of migraine headaches, those without “aura” (no warning symptoms), and those with “aura” (visual disturbances before the headache begins). An “aura” is a group of neurological symptoms (usually vison disturbances) that serve as a warning sign. These visual warning signs typically are a flash of brightly colored, or blinking lights, tempory vision loss, or blind spots.
Prior to the 1980′s it was believed that migraines were the result of changes to the blood vessels within the brain. Today it is believed that the attacks are caused be abnormalities in certain areas of the brain itself.
Many migraines are “triggered” by external factors. Some of these factors may be:
- Bright lights
- Loud noises
- Certain odors, including perfumes
- Caffeine
- Physical or emotional stress
- Allergic reactions
- Alcohol
- Some chemicals or preservatives found in food
- Changes in the weather
- Fluctuations in the menstrul cycle
- Birth control pills
- Skipping meals
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Excessive fatigue
Some pre-existing medical conditions are also commonly associated with migraines. A couple of examples would be: asthma, stroke, chronic fatigue, and hypertension. Also, as previously mentioned, these headaches are hereditary, with 4 out of 5 migraine sufferers having a family history of these headaches.
Should you believe that you are someone who is prone to migraine headaches, speak to, and work with your doctor regarding the best way to approach an effective treatment plan.
