Understanding the Agony: Migraines Unveiled
Every day, around 190,000 individuals in the UK are struck down by the torment of a migraine, a condition that afflicts more than six million Brits. It’s a persistent headache disorder characterized by throbbing head pain of moderate to severe intensity, typically lasting for 4–72 hours. The agony often accompanies symptoms like nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, sound, and more, sometimes heralded by an “aura.”
Genetic Links and Migraines
Dr. Johal, a medical advisor at Vitality, suggests that migraines have a genetic predisposition, running in families. While each episode’s triggers may vary, common dietary culprits include skipping meals, dehydration, caffeine, alcohol, gluten, chocolate, cheese, and citrus.
Chocolate, in particular, can act as a migraine trigger due to its ingredients, like caffeine, tyramine, and phenylethylamine, affecting blood vessels and brain chemicals. Environmental triggers, such as strong odours, bright lights, cigarette smoke, or sudden temperature changes, can also induce migraines.
Cracking the Trigger Code
Dr. Johal recommends maintaining a migraine diary to identify personal triggers, emphasizing the importance of avoiding them whenever possible. Yet, some triggers are beyond complete avoidance, like specific emotional states, such as stress, anxiety, or depression.
Hence, embracing a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular, moderate exercise, becomes crucial. Sticking to a routine with regular mealtimes and adequate sleep is another strategy, given that migraines often result from disruptions to routines.
Seeking Relief for Migraines
For those still battling migraines despite their best efforts to avoid triggers and lead a healthy lifestyle, consulting a GP becomes a wise step.
Banishing the Sleep-Induced Migraine
Migraines can be triggered by numerous factors, including stress, sensory stimuli, medication, and even weather changes. One of the most common culprits, however, is disrupted sleep, an experience shared by all of us at some point. The NHS provides essential do’s and don’ts for improving sleep quality:
DO:
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
- Ensure your bed is comfortable.
- Relax an hour before bed.
- Exercise regularly during the day.
- Create a dark and quiet bedroom environment.
DON’T:
- Avoid smoking or alcohol, tea, or coffee six hours before bedtime.
- Refrain from heavy late-night meals.
- Do not drive when drowsy.
- Avoid exercise four hours before bedtime.
- Stay away from screens before sleep, as the bright light can hinder sleep quality.
- Stick to your regular sleeping hours even after a poor night’s sleep.
Erin Balsa is a highly skilled and knowledgeable health journalist with a passion for educating the public on important health and wellness topics. With extensive experience in both traditional and digital media, Erin has established herself as a trusted voice in the field.