0106 GMT March 30, 2020
Migraine is more prevalent than diabetes, epilepsy and asthma, as it affects one out of seven people. The World Health Organization defines migraine as one of the most disabling lifetime conditions yet awareness and understanding of the condition is low, Zee News said.
Migraine affects people in different ways, but it is often mistaken for other conditions. The main symptom of migraine is a painful headache, often on one side of the head. However, it can affect the whole body and can result in many symptoms, sometimes without a headache at all.
During various episodes of a migraine attack, the symptoms can vary from person to person. A migraine attack can normally last between 4 and 72 hours.
There is no clear diagnostic test or cure for migraine. Diagnosis depends on the history and patterns of migraine attacks. However, there are many ways to manage the condition and ultimately reduce the disruption caused to everyday life.
Migraine is often triggered by a factor or a combination of several factors. It may be an environmental or emotional event. The common triggers of migraine are dehydration, bright and flashing lights, skipping breakfast, caffeinated beverages, lack of sleep, excitement, stress, smoking, menstruation, changes in hormone levels, travel, spending more time in front of television or computer and lack of physical activity. It is important to identify the triggers as it can be beneficial to make some changes to help prevent a migraine.
Stress management and relaxation techniques have proved to be beneficial during a migraine attack and to alleviate stress before it triggers an attack. Relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, mental imaginary relaxation or relaxation to music are effective in alleviating a migraine attack. Regular physical activity is also important to prevent migraine attacks.
Another technique is called as biofeedback, where painless sensors are connected to the body to monitor changes in several physical functions, such as muscle tension, heart rate and blood pressure. A biofeedback therapist helps a child to recognize the signs of tension and teaches the physical skills to release and control the tension.
Several types of medications are available to alleviate the symptoms of migraine. Analgesics, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen are pain relievers for treatment of headaches in children and young adults. Children, who do not find analgesics helpful, can be benefited with Triptans.