Migraine is a neurological condition that can have a significant impact on one’s day-to-day functioning. It can lead to terrible headaches with a pulsing or throbbing sensation and cause multiple other symptoms. It is usually accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines can last many hours, and in worse cases, even days. It is important to understand the symptoms, causes, treatments, and natural ways to manage this debilitating condition.

Stages and symptoms

Migraines can affect individuals of all ages. Usually, there are stages of a migraine attack, and each stage comes with its own symptoms.
The first stage is prodrome, which occurs a day or two before the migraine attack. Symptoms of this stage include constipation, food cravings, frequent urination, yawning, neck stiffness, mood changes, and fluid retention.
The next stage is known as aura. Common symptoms include seeing various shapes and spots, vision loss, the sensation of pins and needles in the arms and legs, trouble with speaking, and even weakness. Auras can occur before, during, or after a migraine attack. In this stage, symptoms usually begin slowly and build up over time. They can last anywhere up to 60 minutes.
The third stage is the migraine attack itself. A migraine attack can last anywhere between four hours and 72 hours. Migraines can vary from person to person, but some of the common symptoms include intense pain on both sides of the head, sensitivity to light and sound, and even vomiting.
The last stage is the postdrome stage. Here, the individuals may feel washed out, exhausted, and even confused. Note that not all individuals go through the same symptoms. Some may experience all stages, while some may not have any signs or symptoms before a migraine attack.

Causes of migraines

There are no known cases of migraines, but experts have been able to find a few common triggers that could lead to a migraine attack. Hormonal changes, stress, stimuli to light, changes in sleep patterns, physical exertion, foods, and even weather changes are common triggers for migraines. Doctors have also determined a few risk factors that could increase the chances of developing a migraine attack. These include gender, age, and genetic predisposition, along with family history.

Treating migraines

Treatment options available for migraines only focus on stopping the symptoms or preventing any further attacks. There is currently no cure for migraines. Most of the treatments available fall into two categories – pain relief and prevention. Pain relief options are known as abortive treatments and are prescribed during a migraine attack. They help to stop symptoms and make the attack more bearable. On the other hand, preventive treatments are prescribed regularly to reduce the number of migraine attacks and even the severity of the attacks.

Food and migraines

While treatments can help with migraine attacks, individuals can also make changes to their nutrition regime to help improve their health and tackle headaches.
Foods such as bananas, watermelons, seeds, nuts, herbal teas, and even berries are known to help with headaches and migraine attacks. People can also try adding foods such as mushrooms, yogurt, broccoli, and spinach to their meals to help relieve headaches, improve their overall health, and boost their immune system.
On the other hand, certain foods are known to trigger a migraine attack. It is best to avoid foods such as chocolate, aged cheese, artificial sweeteners, coffee, and tea to prevent migraines.

Natural remedies for migraines

Individuals can try supportive natural remedies such as acupuncture and yoga to reduce their migraine attacks.
Massages can also help improve circulation in the body and release stress, which can prevent migraine attacks.