Preventing Migraines

Migraine headaches affect roughly 15% of people living in Ireland. Experiencing one can make it difficult or impossible to accomplish simple daily tasks. Of those who suffer from this disabling condition, it is estimated that between 10-20% are unable to work. Migraines are considered so serious that the World Health Organisation has them rated among the twenty most disabling lifetime conditions, also labelling sufferers as having a lower quality of life than people with asthma.

What is a Migraine?

A migraine is a severe, painful headache that is often preceded or accompanied by sensory warning signs such as flashes of light, blind spots, tingling in the arms and legs, nausea, vomiting and increased sensitivity to light and sound. The excruciating pain that migraines bring can last for hours or even days. About three times as many women as men suffer from migraine

What can trigger a Migraine?

There is no known cause for migraines. What triggers an attack can vary from person to person.

Triggers can include

• Changes in routine
• Alcohol and Caffeine
• Too much or too little sleep
• Stress
• The environment – weather changes, high humidity, loud noises, etc.
• Bright, flickering or glary lights

Migraine and your Diet

Some scientists regard migraine headaches as an allergic reaction, because they may be triggered by certain foods, particularly those containing high amounts of Tyramine – an amino acid found naturally in some foods.

Foods high in Tyramine include

• Certain cheeses including Blue cheeses, Brie, Cheddar
• Canned, Cured or Processed meats
• Onions
• Olives
• Raisins
• Canned soups
• Nuts

Helping Yourself

If you have experienced a migraine, or think you may have, here are some simple steps to help you take control

• Get a diagnosis for your headache from a doctor
• Try to identify triggers with your doctor’s help
• Eat healthily and be aware of high tyramine foods
• Stay hydrated
• Reduce caffeine intake and avoid fizzy drinks
• Take regular exercise
• Try to keep a regular sleeping pattern

Also

New research into the causes of migraine headaches reveals that a herb called Butterbur offers promise for migraine headache relief. Clinical trials also indicate that butterbur may prevent the recurrence of a migraine.

Remember

Migraines are much more than just a headache and can be associated with other more serious problems. The sooner you seek help the less time you will spend worrying about it.