Break the cycle of chronic migraines by understanding their possible causes

You may be experiencing chronic migraines due to heredity, hormonal changes, or sleep problems. The environment and daily habits, like food choices, can also affect recurrence. Start preventing and treating this problem by modifying your lifestyle and seeking professional care for a thorough diagnosis and advice.

The World Health Organization reports that migraine headaches are the 3rd most common neurological disease. The reasons why it happens can change from person to person, so you may need to track symptoms to spot and prevent your specific triggers.

What Separates a Migraine from a Headache?

A typical headache may cause mild to moderate dull or pressing pain on both sides of your head. However, you know you're having a migraine when pain is more severe and throbbing. It also usually occurs on one side and can be accompanied by other symptoms, like extreme sensitivity to light and sound or nausea.

Additionally, a common tension headache only lasts about 30 minutes to a few hours. A migraine attack can last as long as 72 hours.

Why Do Chronic Migraines Happen?

Some common causes of migraines include shifts in brain chemistry and hormones. That's why women who are pregnant or on their period may have this issue.

Stress and drastic changes in sleep patterns can offset your brain's rhythm.

What about your diet? Too much alcohol, caffeine, and additives like MSG are known triggers. Sometimes being dehydrated or skipping meals can have an effect.

If you're using medication for relief, be mindful of how much you're taking. Overuse can create a paradox that causes even more headaches.

How Can I Find Migraine Relief?

During an attack, try dimming the lights and hydrate yourself immediately. Ibuprofen may help when symptoms first start.

Lifestyle adjustments like limiting caffeine and alcohol can be effective in migraine prevention. Some supplementation with Vitamin B2 or magnesium may provide preventative care.

Try to get more sleep and eat meals on a regular schedule. You should get 7 to 9 restful hours of slumber for overall health, per the Sleep Foundation.

Moderate aerobic activity like biking and walking five times a week can help your circulation and stress relief. Other relaxation techniques include yoga and meditation.

You can also consult with a chronic headache specialist who can:

• Suggest better medication
• Run an MRI or CT scan
• Check for a pinched nerve
• Make you a candidate for spinal decompression surgery, if necessary

Learn more about Dr. Peled and how to potentially find permanent relief.

Clear Your Head by Understanding Causes for Pain

If your head is constantly pounding from chronic migraines, there may be home remedies you can use, from over-the-counter medication to lifestyle adjustments like regular meals and more sleep. Practice stress reduction methods and write down potential triggers.

It may be time to consult a professional who can run extensive tests to evaluate the cause of this problem. Depending on the findings, your doctor may recommend medication or see if you're a candidate for corrective surgery. Either way, there are steps you can take to find the relief you need for a better quality of life.

Learn more about health, lifestyle, and wellness from other articles on our website.

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