Migraine Headaches - A Beginners Guide

By Niall Roche

If you're reading this then chances are you've been suffering from migraines for a while now - probably years. And what probably annoys you most is that people don't take migraines seriously - it's seen as just another headache; nothing amazing. But if you've had a migraine you'd understand that it isn't just another headache - it's usually hard to describe in words how painful they are. That's the type of "ignorance" us migraineurs have to put up with almost every day.

The vast majority of people will have their first migraine in their late teenage years or just into their adult years. Normally migraines will make your life a living hell for several years and then disappear when you're in your adult life - usually in your late 30s or 40s. For a few unlucky migraineurs they have to deal with migraines into their 50s and 60s.

For decades doctors believed that migraines were strictly vascular headaches - caused by problems with blood-flow in and around the brain. There's new research that is proving that migraines are not just vascular headaches - they're tired to brain dysfunction too. Brain dysfunction makes most people panic but there's no need - it just means that your brain hiccups every so often and you have to deal with a migraine headache because of that.

So how much time can you expect to lose to a migraine attack? Anywhere from 1 - 3 days is the norm but they can last longer. A really severe migraine can last up to a week. My own experience of migraines means I know I can expect to lose 24 hours - give or take. If you're careful you can reduce the length of a migraine attack by taking preventative measures like taking painkillers and getting to a quiet dark room as quickly as you can.

So what causes those migraine attacks of yours? They're called migraine triggers and the exact cause varies for each person. Stress can bring on migraines for some people where for others it's too much caffeine, nicotine or chocolate. Bright lights are another major cause. So are the tannins you can find in red wine and tea. Some people even have migraines that are caused by a change in the weather patterns.

You don't need to suffer though - there are treatments. Most of these treatments come in the form of pharmacy grade pain killers but these aren't very effective against a massive migraine. Usually you'll need a prescription painkiller but you'll need to watch out for side effects. If you want a more natural approach then the split second you feel a migraine coming go find a dark room and lay down. Cover your eyes with something and get as much rest as you can in total peace.

Migraines are a pain in the rear end but they can be lived with. They're not going to kill you but they can affect your quality of life - if you allow them too. Know your triggers and know your threshold. When the attack starts take action immediately - your suffering will be dramatically reduced. - 32503

About the Author:

Sign Up for our Free Newsletter

Enter email address here