Suffer from Constant Migraines? Here’s What You Could be Doing

Monday, June 28, 2021

Migraines can be a mystery. While some common symptoms are easy to identify (intense throbbing pain in one area of the head, sensitivity to light and sound, possible nausea) their causes aren’t always known. Which means treatment can also be complex.

At SouthCoast Health, we know that dealing with migraines can be much more than just a headache. Which is why we’re sharing some information to help you manage them.

Medical Help with Preventative Medicine

Several medicines are available to prevent migraine attacks and reduce their severity. But determining the exact medicine is not always an exact science. The American Migraine Foundation, for example, asserts that “the choice of medication depends on many factors such as co-existing conditions — including high blood pressure, asthma, diabetes, or pregnancy (among others).”

Coordination with your doctor is of utmost importance. After an initial consult, experimentation with introductory low doses may be the best course of action. As the American Headache Society says, “When prescribing preventive treatments, it may be best to give each treatment an adequate trial for at least two months at goal dose, emphasizing that improvement is often gradual.”

Time can be of the essence regarding this condition. When it comes to migraines, the best route will be discovered through careful, honest communication with a doctor invested in partnering with you for a long-term solution.

Circumventing Pain with Diet & Exercise

Finding other solutions may require just as much experimenting as determining the right medicine. But there is a multitude of research surrounding nutrition and physical activity that can help those who are afflicted with migraine.

Several lifestyle factors may contribute to migraine, according to WebMD, including caffeine and alcohol consumption, skipping meals, lack of sleep, and the amount of exercise you’re doing. Keep a journal of your daily activities and food intake as a way to track what may be triggering your pain.
A 2019 study published in the Journal of Headache and Pain indicates that a Ketogenic diet and modified Atkins diet may suppress neuro-inflammation.
The same study indicates that a low-glycemic diet may also prevent migraines.
Consumption of Omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce migraine attacks, according to this 2017 study reported in Scientific Wellness.
“Exercise can be an effective intervention in the preventive treatment of migraines,” the American Migraine Foundation advises, though they also caution it’s important to stay hydrated, remain properly fueled, and not rush into vigorous activity too quickly.
Yoga could also soothe migraine pain, according to a 2014 study published in the International Journal of Yoga, which concludes that “Headache frequency and intensity were reduced more in Yoga with conventional care than the conventional care group alone.”

In all cases, consult with your health specialist to find the best solution for you..

Minding Migraine with Cognitive Behavior Therapy

In parallel with medicinal, nutritional, and exercise alleviation, the Association of Migraine Disorders recommends considering Cognitive Behavior Therapy to help manage migraine pain.

“CBT assists in the reduction of the vicious cycle by facilitating the development of skills that increase your ability to cope with pain and reduce headache-related psychological distress,” these experts explain. Treatment efforts typically include daily wellness activities, relaxation and stress management, trigger awareness, pacing activities, and other routines that can reduce the effects of migraine pain.

Struggling with migraine pain can impact your entire well-being. To discuss a plan to discover the best course of action for you, click here to schedule an appointment or give us a call at 912-691-3600.

Whether you are looking for a primary care doctor or a pediatrician, or another medical specialist, SouthCoast Health has you covered with its wide range of world-class healthcare services, available throughout the Coastal Empire and Lowcountry. Founded in 1996, SouthCoast Health has 120 physicians and medical professionals in 17 locations in Savannah, Richmond Hill, Pooler, Rincon, Baxley, Hilton Head, Hinesville, and Statesboro. SouthCoast Health offers comprehensive medical services including: Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Allergy and Asthma, Cardiology, Endocrinology, Eye Care, Imaging, Infectious Diseases, Nephrology, Neurology, Physical Therapy, Podiatry, Surgery, Clinical Trial Research Studies, Diabetic Self-Management Training Sessions, Dietetic Counseling, Laboratory Services, Massage Therapy, Optical Shop, Pharmacy, and Urgent Care.