by Nicola Raimbert – Osteopath
Migraines are an extremely intense headache, characterised by throbbing or pounding pain. Some people experience additional symptoms beforehand and afterward including fatigue, irritability, brain fog, blurred vision, light or sound sensitivity, nausea and vomiting. Unfortunately, the true cause of migraines remains an enigma.
We do understand migraine triggers. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, over-exertion, poor sleep, fluctuating blood sugar, dehydration, food additives, and sensory overload. Essentially anything that increases load on the body.
Treatment involves identifying and reducing the incidence of triggers. This may feel overwhelming. Instead, I hope you see it as empowering. There are so many avenues open to you to reduce your incidence of migraine. Acknowledge that it is a process and it will take time. Apps can be helpful – my favourite is the Migraine Tracker: MiG (free with no adds or in-app purchases)
Multifactorial conditions are daunting. The best strategy is to simply start with what seems most achievable. Why not explore one of the areas below.
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Regulate your menstrual cycle – naturopathy and traditional chinese medicine are fantastic for this.
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Hydration & regulating blood sugar & caffeine intake (see Lucie’s post above)
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Regulating your sleep cycle. Sleep is the absolute foundation of good health. Check out these sleep hygiene strategies to improve yours.
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Regulating stress levels – this requires designing a schedule that reduces causes of stress, but also allocating time to release stress when it does arise.
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Avoid nitrates, tyramine, MSG – think processed meats, aged cheeses & processed foods.
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Reducing muscle tension – remedial massage, lavender oil, yoga, magnesium, sound relaxation, epsom salt baths, shakti mats
Perhaps most importantly, we could all improve our kinesthetic awareness. When we take the time to listen to our bodies and sense how we are feeling, it becomes easier to know what our bodies need to thrive. Insight Timer is a meditation app with numerous ‘Body Scan’ exercises, designed to help you tune in. I hope you give it a go.