Migraines affects about 30 million Americans every year and has increased by 50% in the last 20 years. Migraines affect 1 and 4 females and 1 and 8 males in America. Though migraines are very common, most people do not know the difference between a migraine and a headache or how to help themselves when they are having a migraine.
What is causing your migraines?
Migraine are caused by excessive dilation and contraction of the brain’s blood vessels. Now, this can happen for a number a reason like hormonal imbalances, stress, flashing lights, lack of exercise, and dehydration. Here are some simple things you can to do help your brain’s blood vessels to not dilate and contract.
Nutrients
- Calcium 2,000 Mg daily, Magnesium 1,000 Mg daily– These minerals will help regulate muscle tone and transmit nerve impulses in the brain.
- Coenzyme Q10 60 Mg daily- Increases blood flow to the brain.
- Dimethylglycine- Improves brain oxygenation
Things to avoid
- Salty & fried foods
- Alcoholic beverages
- Foods with amino acid tyramine (avocados, bananas, beer, canned fish, potatoes, etc.)
- Loud noises, strong odors, high altitudes
Things to Incorporate into Your Life
- Moderate Exercise (light jogs, yoga, moderate weightlifting)
- High protein, low Carbohydrate diet
- Daily neck massages (Improves blood flow to brain and relaxation)
- Small meals and nutritious snacks
- Acupuncture
Symptoms of a Migraine
Many people do not know the difference between when they have a headache or a migraine. The main difference between a headache and a migraine is migraines are commonly accompanied by nausea, and sensitivity to light and sounds. Tension or cluster headache do not have many other symptoms besides the pain of a headache. Also migraines usually last longer than a cluster or tension headache but that is not always the case.
Migraines have been one of the most common reason why people miss work or school in America. These tips should help you prevent the onset of migraines and help live a more active pain-free life.