Migraine and Headache Awareness Month
Migraine Headache Awareness Month: Get Involved and Informed.
Understanding Migraine and Headache Disorders.
Types of Headaches.
Migraine Headaches: Migraines are severe, recurring headaches that can cause throbbing or pulsating pain, usually on one side of the head. They are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, sound, and smells.
Tension Headaches: These are characterized by a dull, non-pulsating, and "vice-like" pressure or tightness around the head. Tension headaches are typically mild to moderate in intensity and are not associated with nausea or vomiting.
Cluster Headaches: Cluster headaches are excruciating, one-sided headaches that occur in cyclical patterns or "clusters." The pain is intense, stabbing, and often centered around one eye or temple. These headaches are accompanied by symptoms like watery eyes, nasal congestion, and drooping eyelids on the affected side.
Causes and Triggers
Migraines can be triggered by various factors, including:
- Hormonal changes (menstrual cycles, birth control pills, etc.)
- Stress
- Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns
- Certain foods (aged cheeses, chocolate, processed meats, etc.)
- Caffeine or alcohol
- Weather changes or changes in barometric pressure
- Sensory stimuli (bright lights, strong smells, loud noises)
- Tension headaches are often linked to stress, poor posture, muscle tension, and eye strain.
- Cluster headaches, on the other hand, are thought to be related to abnormalities in the hypothalamus region of the brain, but the exact cause is unknown.
Migraine and headache disorders are profoundly debilitating, impacting millions worldwide. This Migraine and Headache Awareness Month serves as a crucial reminder to destigmatize these conditions, advocate for better research and treatment options, and support those affected.
