Overview

Migraine is a neurological syndrome characterized by altered bodily experiences, painful headaches, and nausea. It is a common condition which affects women more frequently than it does men.

The typical migraine headache is one-sided and pulsating, lasting 4 to 72 hours. Accompanying complaints are nausea and vomiting, and a heightened sensitivity to bright lights (photophobia) and noise (hyperacusis). Approximately one third of people who experience migraine get a preceding aura, in which a patient may sense a strange light or unpleasant smell. Patients often describe triggers they feel precipitate an episode of migraine, such as certain foods and beverages (like chocolate or alcohol), stress or menstruation. In some migraine types there are typical features but the headache remains absent, and in children abdominal pain may be a prominent feature.

Although the exact cause of migraine remains unknown, the most widespread theory is that it is a disorder of the serotonergic control system. Genetic factors may also contribute. Studies on twins show that genes have a 60 to 65% influence on the development of migraine. Fluctuating hormone levels show a relation to migraine in several ways: three quarters of adult migraine patients are female while migraine affects approximately equal numbers of boys and girls before puberty,[citation needed] and migraine is known to disappear during pregnancy in a substantial number of sufferers.

The treatment of migraine begins with simple painkillers for headache and anti-emetics for nausea, and avoidance of triggers if present. Specific anti-migraine drugs can be used to treat migraine. If the condition is severe and frequent enough, preventative drugs might be considered.

The word migraine is French in origin and comes from the Greek hemicrania, as does the Old English term megrim. Literally, hemicrania means "half (the) head".

Friday, June 19, 2009

Headaches and Pregnancy

Headaches generally occur more often in woman who are pregnant because of the hormonal changes and increased blood flow. Fatigue and stress can also contribute, as can too much caffeine.

Approximately 20% of women will experience headaches while being pregnant and most find that they occur less in the last few months. Although they can worsen after the baby is born.

Treatment of headaches in pregnancy may include soothing and non-drug measures such as cold packs, darkened room, and sleep.

If your headache is due to tension, try applying cold compresses to aches along the back of your neck. Balanced, healthy diets, eaten in several small meals a day can help reduce headaches.

If you have a sinus headache, apply warm compresses to your head in such places as the front of your face on either side of the nose, in the middle of the forehead, and on the temples. These areas are occupied by the sinuses.

Try relaxation exercises, such as closing your eyes and imagining yourself in a peaceful place. Reducing stress is a key to a healthy pregnancy. If you feel that the methods you have used to reduce stress have been inadequate, or even if you just want someone to talk to, you may want to ask your doctor for a referral to a counselor or therapist.

Talk to your doctor before taking pain relievers, even if you have taken over the counter medicines such as ibuprofen or aspirin for pain before you were pregnant. Acetaminophen is usually safe during pregnancy, but again, it is best not to use medications unless your doctor has prescribed them.



Autor: Elizabeth Riley

Finding the right information on headaches and pregnancy will certainly help you to deal with any potential risks.

Maybe you are pregnant and suffering from headaches or maybe you suffer from headaches and are concerned about when you become pregnant.

For more information on your headaches and pregnancy visit http://www.pregnancymigraine.com


Added: June 19, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

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