7 common migraine triggers

7 common migraine triggers

Migraine, a debilitating disorder is frequently written off as a headache. According to statistics, this condition is seen in 15% of the population. It is high time that this neurological condition is taken seriously. Pain, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound are possible side effects of this condition. Some might even experience an intense form of migraine that is present with an aura. None of this is a matter that should simply be dismissed.

Hormonal changes
Hormonal changes are another factor that can trigger migraine episodes. This is most commonly seen in women. Hormonal migraines are common around menstrual cycles and can be seen in most women that experience severe PMS symptoms. Some with health conditions like PCOS and endometriosis also frequently suffer from migraine attacks triggered by changes in estrogen levels. A survey found that approximately 17.1% of females in the country reported migraine symptoms.

Weather conditions
Weather changes other than extreme temperatures can also result in migraine attacks for some patients. This can include changes in wind, barometric pressure, and humidity. Since not much can be done in accordance with weather changes, it is important for the patient to identify their migraine triggers and be aware of them. Keeping a migraine diary may come in handy and help prepare if an episode occurs. Also, note the things that help in the event of a migraine attack.

Dehydration
Excessive heat, low water intake, and prolonged exposure to the sun are all commonly known migraine triggers. The more hydrated a body is, the less likely it is to suffer through frequent and intense migraine headaches. Fluids like infused water, fresh juices, soups, and green tea can come in handy.

Cured meat
Most cured meats have high quantities of nitrates in them. This compound is added to enhance the color and flavor of the meat. In addition, cured meats also carry a high quantity of salt. The body converts the nitrates into nitric oxide, which is a proven migraine trigger. Therefore, it is advised to avoid sausages, ham, and other cured meats to prevent frequent and severe migraine attacks.

Fermented foods
Fermented foods like parmesan, blue cheese, kimchi, pickles, kombucha, and feta can be easily found in anyone’s kitchen. But sadly, it is another cause of severe migraines. Tyramine, a naturally occurring substance found in fermented foods, has been connected to migraine headaches.

Sodas
Artificial sweeteners in sodas are another common migraine trigger. Aspartame is one of the often utilized sugar alternatives in these drinks. In addition to causing digestive issues, it can disrupt the body’s insulin levels. More research is required to fully understand the relationship between aspartame and migraine.

Chocolate
The American Migraine Association lists chocolate as one of the top foods that can set off a migraine attack. It contains stimulants like beta-phenylethylamine and caffeine, which can trigger migraine. It is advised to avoid chocolates and pastries that contain cocoa as these ingredients may make migraine symptoms worse.

Popular Reads

Here’s how you can get your allergies detected

Here’s how you can get your allergies detected

How many times have allergies caused you to sneeze every time you take a ride in the open air? Or rashes on coming in contact with a plant? Or swelling as a result of a peanut allergy? Sneezing, running noses, watery eyes, rashes, swelling all these reactions due to allergies can be quite distressing. Allergies are more common and can be caused by various things. The cause of allergies is still unknown, it could be genetic or just a singular development. However, they can be easily detected by just visiting your doctor and undergoing some tests. Read on to know more about what are allergies and how to detect them. What are allergies? The immune system is designed to fight any entrant in the body that it recognizes as foreign. However, at times, the immune system becomes over vigilant and starts fighting foreign entrants that are not harmful. Substances that cause the immune system to react this way are called “allergens”, and when you display symptoms of these interactions, you are diagnosed “allergic” to the substance. Allergens can include plants, grass, pollen, dust, food, animal dander among others. While symptoms like running nose, sneezing, watery eyes, rashes, itching, and others, are all attributed to allergic reactions.
5 frequently asked questions about Alzheimer’s disease

5 frequently asked questions about Alzheimer’s disease

A common form of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease is a debilitating and progressive disease that affects the brain and motor functions of the body. The disease progresses through stages. It begins to affect the regions of the brain that control language, thought, and memory. In most of the cases, it begins with a slight memory loss. In the final stages, Alzheimer’s disease leads to the loss of various abilities including motor skills, speech, and independent movement. Here are a few frequently asked questions about Alzheimer’s. What are the causes? Alzheimer’s disease does not have any definite cause. Research has been unable to conclude whether Alzheimer’s is developed by one cause or multiple ones. The exact cause of the ailment is not yet known. However, there are multiple factors that may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. One of the major causes is ageism. Also, a family history of Alzheimer’s is another major risk. This may lead to the inheritance of genes that cause this disease. Some other possible risk factors that can cause Alzheimer’s include high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, and high cholesterol. What are the symptoms? In most cases, the first warning sign of Alzheimer’s disease is a loss of cognitive ability.
Four important steps in anemia management

Four important steps in anemia management

Hemoglobin is a protein molecule in the red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Its richness in iron gives blood its red color. Anemia is a condition where a person has low hemoglobin or red blood cell count. From an underlying disease to nutrient deficiencies, there are a lot of factors that contribute to the onset of this condition. There are many forms of anemia. Some of them include: Iron deficiency anemia -This is caused due to low iron levels in the blood. Most common causes of this type of anemia are heavy menstruation or internal bleeding. Vitamin deficiency anemia – This type of anemia is caused by the deficiency of vitamin C, B-12 or folate Aplastic anemia – Damaged stem cells in the bone marrow fail to produce enough red blood cells, leading to aplastic anemia. Sickle cell anemia – This is a condition characterized by the development of abnormal crescent-shaped red blood cells. Hemolytic anemia – This is a blood disorder caused due to premature death of red blood cells. Thalassemia – This is caused due to low amounts of hemoglobin in the blood. The blood disorders vary in duration and severity. Prompt diagnosis, and treatment are important because anemia could also be due to an underlying condition.