June is Migraine and Headache Awareness Month

Do you experience migraines or headaches?

Almost everyone knows someone who suffers from migraines or is affected by migraines themself. 36 million (more than 1 in 10) men, women and children experience migraines in the US and most of them do not seek medical help for their pain. Many of us who do not suffer from migraines do not realize how serious and debilitating they can be; about two-thirds of migraine sufferers cannot function at a normal level when they get a migraine.

Show your awareness by wearing purple the month of June.

Migraines are a complex disorder involving the brain and the blood vessels around the brain causing hyperactive responses to certain triggers

 

Common triggers for migraines are related to environmental:

  • Light sensitivities
  • Smell
  • Loud noises

Hormonal triggers.

  • Menstrual changes
  • Progesterone levels low

Food triggers:

  • Cheeses, mostly aged.
  • Chocolate
  • Fermented, pickled, or marinated foods
  • MSG (Monosodium glutamate)
  • Aspartame
  • Caffeine
  • Alcohol, mainly red wine and beer
  • Tobacco

Other triggers:

  • Stress
  • Sleep pattern changes.
  • Barometric pressure changes
  • Hunger

 

Preventing your migraines may be easier said than done; focus on what triggers your migraines and try to prevent exposure to these triggers.

-Suzanne Moroney- June 9, 2014