The Debilitating Pain of Migraines

Do you suffer from headaches? Unfortunately, headaches are something that many people experience from time to time. At times they can be debilitating making it difficult to perform your daily activities. There are numerous different types of headaches, but most are probably familiar with migraines.

Migraines are incredibly common throughout the world, affecting an estimated one in every seven people. Symptoms of a migraine include pain in one side of the head (typically the front part) and around the eyes. These can last anywhere from 4-72 hours. Most people with these will have nausea and vomiting as well as experience light and sound sensitivities. Often, people may experience an aura which can be like flashing lights in their eyes and then the headache follows. Many will have their symptoms worsen with activity.

If you go to your doctor and have never experienced a migraine before he or she may perform a CT scan to rule out any underlying causes such as bleeding in your head. If there is not a serious underlying cause they will likely give you medication to help stop the headache. Generally, this is a combination of medications including something for pain and something to help with nausea.

After receiving these medications it is important to drink plenty of fluids and rest in a dark room. If you have a history of migraines it is reasonable to try to treat them at home with some acetaminophen or ibuprofen, fluids and rest. It is also important to recognize any triggers such as noises, smells or lack of sleep that may start your migraine.

You should visit with your healthcare provider if your headache does not go away with at home remedies. Also, if they occur frequently you may be a candidate for a medication that may stop the headaches from starting and will be taken on a daily basis. Headaches can present in many ways and it is important to visit with your healthcare provider to decide what treatment is best for you.