Check-up this week looks at Migraines
I've just had the worst headache I've ever experienced. After several hours of feeling awful, I called my GP, who said he thought it was migraine.
Migraine is a very severe headache that tends to involve one half of the head. It's a common problem, affecting about one in 10 people. Women are more prone to it than men, with those in the 20-50 age group suffering most.
Migraine is caused by swelling of the blood vessels inside and outside the scalp. This causes more blood to be pumped through the vessels, resulting in a throbbing sensation. Some people experience a type of warning or "aura" before the headache begins.
My doctor did ask if I'd had an aura, but I didn't understand what he meant. However, I noticed that my vision was blurred when I woke that morning and I felt sick. I put these symptoms down to the red wine I had the night before - not something I usually drink.
That's an interesting observation, because wine, and in particular red wine, can trigger a migraine attack. It can be brought on by tension and stress, fatigue, hunger and hormonal changes. Certain foods, including cheese, tomatoes, oranges and chocolate, can also cause an attack. Unpleasant odours, strong perfume, bright or flickering lights and excessive noise can also prompt migraine.
The aura can include blurred vision, nausea and vomiting.
My doctor mentioned migraine medication was available in case I get it again, but can I do anything to prevent it recurring?
Although there is no cure for this condition, it can be managed effectively by using preventative measures and adequate pain control during an attack.
Try to adopt a healthy lifestyle: ensure you eat at regular times and go easy on alcohol especially if you suspect it triggered your attack.
Try to avoid tension, tiredness and constant mental or physical stress. If you suspect an attack is imminent, take anti-migraine medication or painkillers straight away.
During an attack. you may also find it helpful to place cold packs on your neck, head and forehead. Avoid moving around too much and don't watch TV or read. Resting in a darkened room can also help.