Saying you have a headache is taken for granted in most situations. Most people don’t experience the symptoms of a migraine. They treat it like a headache with an over-the counter painkiller. Migraines can be painful and make it difficult to perform even simple tasks. Nearly 14.7% of people in the world suffer from migraines. This includes both adults and children.
There are two kinds of migraines, episodic and chronic. The migraines that are episodic last a few minutes and happen every few weeks or even months. Chronic migraines last longer and occur more frequently. Chronic migraines last on average 15 days per month and can last up to three months. There are many possible triggers for migraines. These include simple physical activities and certain behaviors.
- Substance abuse and use (coffee wine etc.
- MSG is a food additive.
- Birth control pills and hormonal medications
- Medicines
- Sensory stimuli: loud music, flashing lights and strong smells
- Sleep disturbances and insomnia
- Anxiety disorders and mood disorders
- Physical activities that are intense
- Obesity
What are the symptoms of a stroke?
Chronic migraine symptoms are incapacitating and have a major impact on your personal and professional life. Each stage of a headache migraine has its own symptoms.
Stage 1: Prodrome
The prodrome usually occurs between one and two days prior to the actual migraine. These are warning signs of an upcoming episode. They are subtle and can be misinterpreted as other symptoms. Symptoms can include:
- Sudden mood swings
- Constipation
- Sudden food cravings
Stage 2: Aura
A group of symptoms that are more visible before a migraine attack is called an aura. These symptoms can often be reversed, which means they can be treated separately before the migraine fully develops. Examples include:
- Blind Spots
- Dots, flashing lights and wavy line
- Tinnitus
- Sudden temporary blindness
- Speech difficulties
- Some parts of the body are numb
- Pins and Needles in the Limbs
Stage 3: Attack
A migraine attack begins when the aura becomes a migraine. Although the intensity and duration of migraines vary from person to person, there are some common symptoms.
- Headache in both or one side of the head
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Throbbing pain
- Sensitivity towards bright lights and loud noises
- Food and smells that trigger a heightened sense of sensitivity
- Double vision
- Physical Weakness
- Numbness
- Seizures
Stage 4: Post-drome
Post-drome is a “hangover” that can last for several days. You may feel better but you should still be cautious because certain things could bring back the pain for a short time.
- Cough
- Sudden movement
- Muscles tensing
- Head-shaking
What is the best way to treat chronic migraines?
There are many migraine studies, but the results are usually inconclusive. Treatments often involve lifestyle management, to avoid triggers, and preventive therapy to reduce attacks.
You can reduce your risk of migraines by making lifestyle changes. This is because they are triggered by alcohol and caffeine consumption. A doctor might recommend a treatment plan that includes cognitive behavioral therapy for stress management, regular exercise, and diet.
Botox
Botulinum type A toxin, also known as Botox, has been used for aesthetic purposes such as lip fillers and wrinkle reduction. Botox is also used to treat medical conditions like muscle spasms and overactive bladders. The FDA has approved this approach for treating migraines. Botox is a highly effective treatment for chronic migraine sufferers, reducing their frequency by about half.
Only chronic migraineurs should receive a botox treatment for chronic migraines. Two to three sessions are usually required to achieve maximum results. It is also advised that lifestyle changes be made during this period, since it may take up to six months for the full benefits to show.
During treatment, botox is administered around the fibers of pain that cause headaches. It then enters the nerve endings to block the chemical release during pain transmission. Around 31 injections are made in critical areas on the head and neck such as the forehead, temples and upper bridge of the nose. The brain’s pain network is prevented from activating and triggering an assault.
Botox side effects
Theoretical studies suggest that botox injections can cause side effects in people with chronic migraines, particularly those who have muscle problems. According to the reports of those who received botox treatment, side effects were rare and usually went away within a few hours.
Side effects may include temporary weakness of the muscles, minor headaches, stiffness in the neck and at injection sites.