1. Migraine is a neurological disease. It is important to understand that chronic
migraines are physiological, not psychological. They are related to how your body
functions and not caused by problems with your mind. Most importantly,
migraine is more than a bad headache. It is a collection of neurological symptoms
that can include headache, changes in vision, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, and
extreme sensitivity to light, sound, touch and smell.
2. Here are some further coping tips I have for people who suffer from chronic
migraine.
1. Get Aerobic Exercise. One of the proven ways to help relieve stress,
particularly proven to help people with migraines, is regular aerobic
exercise. I usually recommend at least three times a week for at least 30 or
40 minutes. There is a direct correlation between more exercise and fewer
headaches. Some patients say they don't have time to exercise; but you
also have to consider time lost when you do suffer a migraine. Exercise is
essential if you want to get better.
2. Try Relaxation Exercises. Everyone knows that stress is a major cause of
headaches, and relaxation therapy helps. Biofeedback is a type of
computerized relaxation training, and it works for many of my patients.
Progressive relaxation also works, as does yoga and meditation. All
relaxation therapies are equally effective.
3. Stick to a Regular Sleep Schedule. Go to sleep at the same time each night;
wake up at the same time each morning, even on the weekends. Both lack
of sleep and too much sleep can cause headaches.
4. Take Magnesium Supplements. Magnesium deficiency can cause migraine
headaches for some people. Symptoms of magnesium deficiency include
migraine headaches, cold hands and feet, premenstrual syndrome, and
muscle cramps in your legs. To supplement with magnesium, start with 400
mg daily.
5. Avoid Food Triggers. Which foods trigger headaches varies from patient to
patient. Some food triggers are quickly obvious. If you have a glass of wine
and you get a headache, then wine is one of your food triggers. Other
common food triggers are chocolate, MSG (monosodium glutamate),
preservative-laden food, and sugar substitutes. Many headache suffers may
3. also have a gluten sensitivity and should try a gluten-free diet. Finally, sugar
sensitivity is a common problem with headache sufferers.
6. Avoid Caffeine. Patients often do not realize caffeine is the culprit because
caffeine often helps them feel better. The reality is that caffeine withdrawal
is what is giving them their headaches. They have caffeine and they feel
better, but two hours later they need more caffeine.
7. Consider Supplements. Finally, there are some supplements that can help
people with chronic migraines, including CoQ10 (300 mg), butterbur (150
mg), feverfew, riboflavin (vitamin B2), vitamin B12, and fish oil. Keep in
mind that butterbur is a toxic plant so never use it in anything except its
pure form. Speak to your doctor first before adding supplements to your
diet.
