Migraines are classified as headaches that occur on one side of the head often accompanied by nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light. Women are more likely to experience migraine headaches than men. The throbbing pain of a migraine can debilitate a person to the point where they cannot walk around or drive. Most people who experience chronic migraines have to seek dark, quiet areas to rest until the migraine goes away.
Reoccurring Pain and Migraines
Reoccurring headaches may not necessarily be migraine headaches. Migraines are usually more severe and bring along visual disturbances and signs before they occur. Some people see spots or flashes in their eyes before a migraine. The warning signs of a migraine are called the “aura.” Also, migraines tend to be much longer lasting than regular tension headaches; they can run anywhere from six to 48 hours.
Migraine headaches are hereditary and can be offset by many different lifestyle habits. Some of these habits and contacts may include alcohol, chocolate, missing meals, strong perfumes or taking in other strong smells. More triggers can include stress, lack of sleep, loud noises, and for women, the menstrual cycle and changes that take place in the body during this time.
Managing Migraines
Migraine sufferers have to learn what their triggers are and adjust lifestyles to avoid anything that can potentially bring on a migraine headache. Visiting a neurologist for pain is high on the list, especially if the migraines are so severe that work and relationships are being compromised. A neurologist may prescribe an antidepressant, which can raise serotonin levels (often migraine sufferers have low levels of serotonin in their brains), or even seizure or blood pressure medications. Some people get relief from over the counter medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen.
Working with Migraines
The WHO (World Health Organization) lists migraines as number 19 on the list of "causes of years lived with disabilities" and considers migraines to be a “recognizable burden” imposing “substantial personal suffering.” Thus, working a full-time job with a migraine can be difficult. If migraines become a trap and work is being missed, migraine suffers can make arrangements with employers to have some aid available. FMLA (Family Medical Leave Act) can help by providing time off when needed for many debilitating types of conditions such as this one. The one thing that is necessary to have is documentation or proof of the condition when trying to get this type of assistance.
Sources:
- Medlineplus.gov. Migraine
- WHO.com. Headache Disorders, (March 2004).
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