MIGRAINES

Migraines typically affect just one side of the head and the headache may be accompanied by sensitivity to light (known as photophobia), nausea and possibly vomiting and sensitivity to noise. The headache may be preceded by an "aura", which may consist of visions of flashes of light, zigzag lines or blind spots, or there may be tingling in the legs or arms. These may vanish as the headache starts or continue as it develops.

Once the migraine has been diagnosed, work with your doctor to try to identify any triggers. Typical triggers include exposure to bright light, lack of sleep, stress, excitement, fatigue, strong odours, excessive heat and foods or drinks such as red wine, chocolate, cheese or citrus fruits. Some migraines are actually triggered by too much sleep and some people find it is not stress that triggers the migraine but relaxation after a period of stress.

In many cases, the triggers may be difficult to identify or virtually impossible to avoid.

Once the migraine has begun, many people find lying in a dark room is the best remedy, but there are numerous medications to help alleviate symptoms.

These include analgesics and specific migraine medications that work best when taken at the onset of the migraine.

People who get severe recurrent migraines can take preventive medications to decrease their frequency. They need to be taken every day and there may be side effects. You need to weigh up the benefits against the potential risks.

Lifestyle measures such as yoga, relaxation therapy, meditation and dietary modification may all help.