How To Find Relief From Migraine Symptoms
If you suffer from migraine symptoms, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that more than 28 million Americans suffer from migraines. There are many things that you can do today to help find relief. This article will discuss what a migraine is, what some of the symptoms are, and how they are treated. After reading this article you should be able to tell if you suffer from migraines, and how to find relief.
What is a Migraine?
A migraine is caused by the enlargement of the temporal arteries. These arteries run over the temples. When they start to swell, the nerves that wrap around them become irritated, causing the release of chemicals which causes further irritation to the blood vessels as well as inflammation and pain.
What are Migraine Symptoms?
There are many symptoms associated with migraine headaches. One of the most common symptoms is nausea and vomiting. A side effect of this symptom is that it becomes very difficult to take pain pills by mouth, since the sufferer can’t keep anything down.
Another symptom that is commonly associated with migraines is that a person will become pallid and have cold hands and feet. This is thought to be because circulation decreases during a migraine attack.
People who suffer from migraines also frequently become sensitive to light and sound. This is another affect of the decreased circulation. This is a very frustrating side effect since it makes it difficult for the sufferer to be around others right when they need care and comfort.
It is also very common for there to be symptoms as the attack approaches. These symptoms can include sleepiness or even food cravings. Identifying what warning signs you typically have and watching out for these symptoms will help you learn when an attack is coming on. This will help you to treat the migraine earlier. The earlier the treatment the more effective it typically will be.
How are Migraines Treated?
Mild migraines can usually be treated with over the counter medications like Advil, Tylenol or Aleve. Advil, or ibuprofen, works well for many people because it works to reduce the swelling and inflammation which one of the primary causes of migraine symptoms.
If over the counter medications are ineffective, there are prescription drugs available. The most commonly prescribed class of drugs for migraine symptoms are Triptans. Triptans reduce the inflammation in blood vessels and nerves. Side effects include drowsiness, fatigue and dizziness. If you suffer from these side effects they are generally short in duration but you should still inform your doctor.
Conclusion
Chronic migraines can make life miserable. If you have frequent, severe headaches and you find that over the counter pain medication like Advil, Aleve or Tylenol do not do anything to treat them, see your doctor. There are prescription drugs that can help. Now that you know the migraine symptoms and the treatments available to combat them you can take steps to reduce the severity and frequency of the migraines you experience.
