Around 1 billion individuals worldwide still suffer from the problem of migraines, which are a common neurological condition. At the same time, many people suffer from sporadic headaches, while others battle chronic migraines, a crippling disease that can negatively influence a person's quality of life. You can learn more about persistent migraines in this blog post, including their causes and treatments. But first let us understand what exactly are Chronic migraines.
Understanding Chronic Migraines
Headaches that continue at least 15 days a month for at least three months are considered chronic migraines. Intense pain, sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and occasionally vision distortions known as aura are common symptoms of these headaches. Chronic migraine disorders happen more frequently and might linger for years, unlike normal headaches that particular things or situations may cause.
Causes of Chronic Migraines
Medical professionals believe that a mix of genetic, environmental, and behavioural factors contribute to the development of chronic migraines, even though the actual aetiology is still unknown. The following are some major causes of recurrent migraines:
Hormonal Changes
Women go through hormonal changes every month, and this is one of the concerning causes of migraine. Changes in oestrogen levels, such as those seen during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can make migraines more likely. Hormonal medications, such as birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, may also have a role in developing chronic migraines in certain people.
Environmental Triggers
Migraines can be triggered by a variety of environmental variables in people who are prone to them. Examples are weather changes, strong odours (perfumes, cleaning products), bright lights, loud noises, and specific foods. Tyramine-containing foods (such as aged cheese and cured meats), artificial sweeteners (such as aspartame), and monosodium glutamate (MSG) are known to cause headaches in certain persons.
Stress and emotional factors play a major role in causing migraines. High levels of stress, anxiety, or emotional fluctuations in mood can increase the cause and intensity of migraines. Some individuals may even experience migraines during relaxation after a stressful period.
Irregular Sleeping Patterns
Irregular sleep patterns and not having a sufficient amount of sleep can trigger chronic migraines. Both excessive sleep and insufficient sleep can lead to generating migraines in individuals. Maintaining a regular sleep routine and prioritising good sleep hygiene is essential in managing migraines.
Other Medical Reasons
Underlying medical conditions such as fibromyalgia, depression, anxiety disorders, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder have been linked to an increased risk of chronic migraine disorders among individuals.
Migraine Headache Treatment Options
Managing chronic migraines usually includes lifestyle changes, preventative measures, and acute treatment options. Here are some common treatment strategies for chronic migraine sufferers that you can look forward to:
Lifestyle Changes
Making some changes in your lifestyle can help reduce the severity of migraines to a great extent. These can include maintaining a regular sleep schedule, managing stress through relaxation techniques or therapy, avoiding known triggers (such as certain foods or environmental stimuli), and adopting healthy habits like regular exercise and a balanced diet.
Right Medications
Many healthcare professionals recommend certain medications to prevent chronic migraines; go by those. If taken regularly, these medications can help reduce migraines' frequency, duration, and intensity. Common preventive medications include beta-blockers, antidepressants, anti-seizure drugs, and Botox injections.
Some Acute Treatment Medications
Acute treatment medications give relief to migraine symptoms when an attack occurs. The professionals recommend over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen sodium. Prescription medications specifically designed to target migraines, called triptans, may be prescribed for more severe migraines. But before taking these medicines, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate medication options and usage instructions.
Non-Pharmacological Approaches
Non-pharmacological approaches can be used alongside medication or as standalone treatments for chronic migraines. These include important steps like taking therapy, biofeedback, relaxation techniques, acupuncture, and cognitive-behavioural therapy. Such therapies focus on relieving stress, improving sleep, and reducing the impact of migraines on daily life.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a relatively new treatment option for chronic migraines. The procedure involves magnetic pulses stimulating specific brain areas and reducing migraine symptoms. TMS has shown promising results in research studies, but further investigation is needed to establish its effectiveness.
Takeaway
Chronic migraines are a complicated illness with numerous contributing variables. While the reason is unknown, knowing and addressing potential triggers through lifestyle changes, preventive drugs, acute treatment alternatives, and non-pharmacological measures can dramatically improve chronic migraine management. Individuals suffering from chronic migraines must collaborate closely with healthcare specialists to design a personalised treatment plan to ease their symptoms and enhance their overall quality of life.
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