Managing Migraines
What is a migraine?
A migraine is a headache and/or an aura
For a headache to be a migraine you must be experiencing at least 2 of the following:
- One sided head pain
- Pulsing head pain
- Moderate / Severe intensity of pain
- Made worse by routine physical activity
AND at least 1 of:
- Nausia and vomiting
- Abnormal sensitivity to light and sound
You could also experience a migraine with aura which includes temporary eye symptoms such as:
- Shimmering, flickering shapes
- Zig zag or moon shape patterns which move or expand
Management Tips
Ensure the correct diagnosis
Relieve symptoms of an attack
Reduce the frequency & severity of attacks
Identify possible triggers
Ensure the correct diagnosis
Other causes that might be the reason you’re experiencing severe
reccuring headaches:
- Exposure to carbon monoxide, alcohol, cocaine or nicotine
- Caffeine withdrawal
- High blood pressure
- Sinus problems
- Dental problems
- Head or neck injury
- Medication overuse
- Eyestrain or incorrect glasses prescription
Seek advice from your GP, Dentist, and Optician
Relieving symptoms of an attack
- Take simple painkillers and/or an anti-sickness in a tablet
- Take simple painkillers and/or an anti-sickness in a suppository
- Anti-migraine drugs
Consult your GP when taking medication