Migraines and Headaches
Migraines are common, with it estimated that there are 6 million people in the UK affected by them, which generally presents like a bad Headache, being worse to one side.
Headaches generally go away on their own (with over-the-counter medication taken such as Paracetamol) and are not seen as serious, but if they become more severe then there is a possibility that a Migraine is being experienced.
Individuals can take medication to help symptoms before the Headache becomes worse and manifests into a Migraine. Common symptoms could include having a stiff neck, wanting to eat certain foods or drink, urinating more frequently or feeling lethargic.
Some individuals might even have an aura before getting a Migraine, which is a warning sign to put something in place to prevent it from getting worse, such as the vision becoming blurred or getting flashing lights, pins and needles sensations or numbness, or their speech being affected.
Migraines can be experienced in different ways, lasting anything from 2 hours to a few days.
- Getting no warning of the symptoms coming.
- Getting a warning aura which does not result in a Migraine, called a silent Migraine.
- Experiencing symptoms followed by an aura with the Migraine.
Individuals that suffer with Migraines generally notice a pattern of having them regularly or very occasionally, with Stress quite often noted as a contributing factor alongside temperature, lack of physical exercise, suffering with Mental Health conditions, not eating properly and drinking substances with too much caffeine. Female sufferers may also experience them around the time of their menstrual cycle.
It is advised if an individual does suffer with Migraines that they avoid their triggers, making sure they get a good night sleep, do regular exercise, manage their Stress levels, eat, and drink healthily and lie down in a dark room when having one.
It is important that if any individual has what they might deem to be a persistent or painful Headache or Migraine that they contact their GP or ring 111 for further advise, as it is not always apparent if they are having a bad Headache, whether it is a Migraine or something else is happening.
References:
Migraine – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
