Migraines- All about this Silent Storm Inside Your Head!

With the increase in the output performance that is expected of us at our workplace, home and elsewhere, we have been putting a tremendous amount of pressure on ourselves. Changes in lifestyle, excessive stress, medications and other causes contribute to this extreme form of headache that is called Migraine. Migraines are an exaggerated response of our body to stress in the form of unbearable, frequent and recurrent headaches. 

It is important to understand the various symptoms of the condition and realize that you need professional help. Targeting the root cause is necessary to help combat these frequent excruciating headaches. Headache is an understatement, only those who are suffering or who have suffered will understand the true meaning of pain associated with migraines. 

A migraine is an alteration in the pathways of the brain and its neuronal circuit. This event can be triggered by various causes and stimuli. It disturbs the blood flow in the brain and lands us in such an unbearable situation. Migraines are usually characteristically associated with a throbbing type of pain on one part of the head. It may also be accompanied by symptoms like feelings of nausea, lightheadedness and increased sensitivity to light and noise. 

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Causes of Migraines 

1. Genetics: Migraines can run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition.

2. Chemical Imbalance: Imbalances in brain chemicals, such as serotonin, which helps regulate pain in the nervous system, can trigger migraines.

3. Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in estrogen levels, such as those experienced during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can trigger migraines in some individuals.

4. Environmental Triggers: Certain environmental factors like bright lights, strong smells, or changes in weather patterns can trigger migraines in susceptible individuals.

5. Dietary Factors: Certain foods and drinks, such as aged cheeses, processed foods, alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco can trigger migraines in some people. Lack of eating the right food at the right time leads to these episodes. 

6. Stress: Emotional stress and anxiety can contribute to the onset of migraines or make them worse in some individuals.

7. Sleep Disturbances: Changes in sleep patterns or inadequate sleep can trigger migraines in susceptible individuals.

8. Overworking: Intense physical exertion or changes in physical activity patterns can trigger migraines in some people.

Who is at risk?

• Migraines are more frequent in females than in males
• Women who are on OCPs
• Strong family history
• Those suffering from mental conditions like Bipolar Disorder

Phases of Migraines 

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An episode of migraine unfolds in these four phases. This terminology is according to the information present on the official website of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. 

1. Premonitory Phase: This phase occurs up to 24 hours before a migraine. Symptoms such as cravings, mood swings (either depressive or euphoric), excessive yawning, fluid retention, or increased frequency of urination are characteristic of this phase. Recognising these symptoms is crucial for understanding what's happening to you. 

2. Aura Phase: Before or during the migraine attack, some individuals may perceive flashing lights, striking patterns, or sensations similar to heat waves. Few others might encounter muscle weakness or the feeling of being touched or grabbed.

3. Headache Phase: Typically starting gradually and escalating in intensity, the headache phase defines the core of a migraine episode. However, it's worth noting that migraines can occur without the presence of a headache.

4. Postdrome Phase: Following a migraine, individuals often experience feelings of exhaustion or disorientation. This postdrome stage can persist for up to a day before individuals regain a sense of well-being.

Preventive Measures 

1. Lifestyle changes to relieve the tension built up by exercising regularly 

2. Weight loss diets and programs to lose weight for obese individuals prone to migraines 

3. Stopping medications that have migraines as a side effect 

4. Quitting alcohol, tobacco, caffeine and other additives that can trigger migraines 

5. Eating the right food at the right time 

6. Practicing good sleep habits 

7. Visit a doctor if you seem to be experiencing similar complaints repeatedly. Choose our Gytree program that focuses on a healthy lifestyle and wellness to get rid of migraine. 

Failure to curb the occurrence of such episodes in the initial stages will prove to be very harmful in the future. Indulge in activities you love, and spend more time with the people whom you find comfort in. These little acts can go a long way in easing the tension in your head. After all, many neurological disorders of our body are a result of our state of mind. Migraine is only as harmful as you let it be!