Migraine Up-date

Chronic migraine affects many people in different ways, usually with throbbing head pain and nausea. Some people present with other predominant complaints - e.g fatigue, neck or back pain, generalised body pains and tenderness, dizziness, vertigo, poor memory and forgetfulness, sensitivity to noise or light and a variety of other problems.

Pain may be anywhere in the head, face or neck. Some people experience on “aura”.

Chronic migraine starts with acute episodes that become more frequent and more severe over time. Gaps between tend to fill with milder headaches until the head never feels really crystal clear. Medication stops working and necessitates stronger types.

People have a genetic tendency to migraine and may have

* Other family members with it
* Previous or current travel sickness
* Undeserved hangover!
* IBS
There may be a trigger to change from acute to chronic - e.g. illness, stress or head injury.

Commonly the continued intake of painkillers and caffeine accentuates and prolongs the likelihood on ongoing episodes of chronic migraine.

Lifestyle Measures

* Stop caffeine and painkillers
* Avoid missing meals
* Aim for 8 - 9 hrs sleep at night at the same time if possible
* Avoid daytime sleep and lie ins
* Gradually increase exercise regularly

Physiotherapy and Acupuncture

Problems of the neck (especially at the top) contribute to headache and migraine and can be treated with physio and/or acupuncture.

A postural assessment would also reveal any problems and an individual exercise plan can be developed to prevent deterioration as well as giving you self treatment options.

For further information or help please speak to Jean Thistleton.