Living with headaches and migraines is an exhausting and a relentless struggle, impacting every part of your life. The constant pain disrupts your routine and focus, leaving you drained and frustrated. Jill Rau, MD, neurologist with HonorHealth Neurology and an independent member of the HonorHealth Medical Staff, provides valuable insights on headaches and migraines in this informative Q&A.
Q: How common are migraine headaches?
A: Migraine headaches are a common primary headache disorder, affecting about 12% of the U.S. population. According to the American Migraine Foundation, one in five women and one in 16 men are impacted, with one in 11 children also experience migraines, often differently than adults. While they can occur at any age, they are most common between 20 and 60 years old.
An estimated 39 million people in the U.S. and one billion worldwide suffer from migraines. Due to their widespread impact and debilitating nature, they are a significant public health issue, often causing people to miss work and important life events. Migraines are among the most common complaints neurologists see in clinical practice.
Q: What are some of the most common causes, and how can you determine what triggers your migraine headaches?
A: About 75% of people with migraines identify at least one known trigger. Common ones include:
- Stress
- Hormonal changes
- Skipped meals
- Sleep issues
- Weather changes
- Certain foods (chocolate, cheese, MSG)
- Alcohol
- Different odors and lights
- Hereditary issues (particularly in women)
- Environmental factors
Since triggers vary for everyone, keeping a migraine journal is key to tailoring your treatment plan.
Q: How can you tell the difference between a headache and a migraine?
A: Migraines are a specific type of headache with defined diagnostic criteria. Migraine without aura is the most common, making up about 75% of cases. These migraines are severe, episodic attacks often accompanied by sensitivity to noise and light and nausea.
According to the International Classification of Headache Disorders, migraine without aura is diagnosed by:
- At least five headaches lasting four to 72 hours with at least two of the following: one-sided pain, pulsating quality, moderate to severe intensity or worsening with routine physical activity
- At least one of the following: nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity (photophobia) or noise sensitivity (phonophobia)
Q: Is it possible to prevent headaches or lessen their severity?
A: Try applying ice to your head or resting in a dark, quiet room. Sleep can also offer some relief. Many integrative medicine approaches can also be used as medicine-free treatment options or added to other therapies, including:
- Relaxation therapy
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Biofeedback
- Acupressure/acupuncture
- Meditation
- Yoga
- Massage therapy
Q: Can nutrition or exercise habits make a difference in headache prevention?
A: Absolutely. Headaches can be prevented through:
- Staying hydrated
- Getting enough sleep
- Keeping regular mealtimes
- Engaging in aerobic exercise
- Managing stress
- Quitting smoking
- Limiting caffeine intake
“Tracking your migraines in a journal can help pinpoint triggers related to behavior, environment or food,” Dr. Rao says. “Additionally, some people find relief with supplements like magnesium and riboflavin.”
Q: When should you see your doctor?
A: If your headaches are becoming more frequent, severe or debilitating, and they’re affecting your quality of life or not responding to treatment, it’s time to see your doctor. Also, seek medical attention if you experience a new headache after age 50, notice changes in headache patterns or have new symptoms like speech changes, numbness, weakness, vision loss, fever, a stiff neck or mood changes.
Q: What are the treatment options for persistent headaches?
A: There are various treatment options for both preventing and managing acute migraines. The right choice depends on factors like your overall health, current medications, lifestyle and personal preferences. It's important to have an open discussion with your doctor to create a treatment plan that works best for you.
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