Posts Tagged ‘migraine headaches’

Beyond Botox: Cure Migraine Headaches with a Facelift!

Monday, April 16th, 2012


 


 

If you’ve tried everything else to get rid of migraine headaches- to relieve the throbbing pain, vomiting, eye sensitivity, and migraine aura symptoms- then you might just need a facelift.  According to recent reports, migraine sufferers who receive reconstructive surgery, such as a forehead lift or eyelift, see at least a 60% reduction in migraine headache pain.

BEYOND BOTOX: CURE MIGRAINE HEADACHES WITH A FACELIFT!

So, you could get rid of the migraine and the crow’s feet at the same time!

Plastic surgery for migraine headaches

The first plastic surgeon to try nerve decompression surgery for relieving migraines was Bahman Guyuron, MD of University Hospitals Case Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio.  He noticed that migraine patients, months after receiving a forehead lift, often experienced a wonderful bonus in addition to their smoother, fresher face- a complete cessation of migraine headaches.

Twelve years later, Dr. Guyuron still practices this procedure on migraine sufferers.  By focusing on muscles and nerves surrounding specific migraine trigger points on the head, Guyuron has successfully reduced migraine headaches in approximately 88% of his patients, while 30% say that their chronic headaches have completely disappeared.

As research grows, more plastic surgeons are employing this method for curing migraines.  This Boston Globe article on plastic surgery for migraines describes how one migraine sufferer received permanent relief from migraine pain.

Deep Brain Stimulation for Migraine Headaches- Is it safe?

Who’s entitled to migraine surgery?

Facelift surgery for relieving migraines is still a new concept, and has only been tested on small groups.  Because more years of testing are required, very few migraine sufferers qualify for nerve decompression surgery.  Furthermore, migraine surgery is only recommended as last alternative, after all other migraine treatments have failed, and only if migraine headaches are debilitating to the point of interfering with your quality of life.

What other options are available?

Opponents to migraine surgery say that patients are often not warned of potential side effects like infection, loss of blood, paralysis, skin rash, and hair loss.

Some neurologists worry that migraineurs may make the hasty decision to undergo permanent surgical procedures before trying natural preventative treatments for migraines, such as exercise, acupuncture, relaxation, and natural supplements for migraines.

Please tell us…

Would you consider having forehead lift surgery to relieve migraines?  Have you exhausted all other migraine therapies, such as alternative medicine and migraine medications?

Do you have any questions or suggestions?  Please leave your comments below.

Share with your friends!

If you found this article helpful, then please share with your friends, family, and coworkers by email, Facebook, or Google+.

Read more about preventing migraine headaches:

Diagnosing Constant Migraines with a Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) – What to Expect

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) for Chronic Pain

Sources:

Plastic Surgery Brings New Hope for Migraine Sufferers

Migraine sufferers may find relief in plastic surgery techniques

Migraine Surgery Offers Good Long-Term Outcomes, Study Finds

Image: Ambro

Migraine Dieting with Gluten-Free Foods: Is it Necessary?

Monday, April 2nd, 2012


 


 

Following a migraine diet is essential for recognizing migraine triggers and preventing migraine headaches.  As more people are adopting gluten-free dieting a means of relieving chronic pain symptoms, you might be wondering what all the hoopla is about, and if you should consider dropping gluten from your migraine diet. Here are some basic facts to consider before chucking your daily bread out the window.

MIGRAINE DIETING WITH GLUTEN-FREE FOODS: IS IT NECESSARY, migravent

What is gluten?

Gluten is a protein that occurs naturally in grains like barley, wheat, and rye.  Most baked goods contain gluten, but it’s also sometimes a hidden ingredient or cross-contamination in many packaged snacks, condiments, and mixes.

Symptoms of gluten intolerance

Below are some common symptoms of gluten intolerance.  Some of them are very similar to migraine symptoms.  Do you suffer from any of these?

  • MIGRAINE DIETING WITH GLUTEN-FREE FOODS: IS IT NECESSARY, migraventChronic headache
  • Moodiness
  • Irritability
  • Depression
  • Fatigue
  • Diarrhea
  • Flatulence
  • Bloating
  • Stomach cramps
  • Nausea
  • Weight loss
  • Sore joints
  • Painful tingling and numbness
  • Eczema

The Do-it-Yourself Migraine Detox Diet: What to Expect

Do you have celiac?

MIGRAINE DIETING WITH GLUTEN-FREE FOODS: IS IT NECESSARY, migraventCeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes headaches, chronic pain, and fatigue, in addition to severe damage to the digestive system.  Today, a simple blood test can diagnose celiac disease by detecting the presence of a gluten-reactive antibody.

Non-celiac gluten sensitivity

Not being diagnosed with celiac disease does not rule out the possibility of gluten sensitivity.  Because the symptoms of gluten intolerance are so similar to those of migraines (headache, depression, stomach problems), they can easily slip past the radar when they occur at the same time as chronic migraines.

It could be the yeast.

Before making gluten a banned substance in your migraine diet, it’s important to recognize that yeast might be a culprit in causing your headaches.  Many yeasted foodstuffs like breads, yeasted cakes, and beer sometimes trigger migraines, while non-yeasted gluten-containing foods may cause no reaction whatsoever.

Keep a migraine diary.

MIGRAINE DIETING WITH GLUTEN-FREE FOODS: IS IT NECESSARY, migraventStill think that gluten is causing your migraines?  The best way to be certain is to keep a migraine diary.  Log in important info like what foods you ate, when you ate them, and what your mood was at the time.  Keep track of your headaches, including the time they occur, how long they last, and which medications you used to treat them.

How to Make a Migraine Headache Diary

After a few months, your migraine diary can become a valuable tool for recognizing migraine triggers, including food triggers, and weeding them out of your life.

Reduce your migraine triggers

In addition to using a migraine diet to reduce headaches, consider these other tips for preventing migraine attacks:

  • Exercise
  • Drink water
  • Eat at regular intervals
  • Sleep 8 hours at nighttime, only
  • Treat sinus congestion
  • Experiment with natural remedies, including vitamins and herbs for migraine prevention.

MIGRAINE DIETING WITH GLUTEN-FREE FOODS: IS IT NECESSARY, migravent

Natural Migraine Remedies: 9 Must-Take Vitamins, Minerals, and Herbs

Please tell us…

Have you been able to reduce migraines by following a special migraine diet?  If so, do you include gluten-free dieting?

Do you have any questions or suggestions?  Please leave your comments below.

Share with your friends!

If you found this article helpful, then please share with your friends, family, and coworkers by email, Facebook, or Google+.

Read more about nutrition and migraines

Which Foods Trigger the Most Migraines? See our Checklist

Beat Migraines with these 5 Magnesium-Rich Foods

Eat like a Migraineur- 7 Migraine Diet Tips

Chocolate for Curing Migraines- 10 Astonishing Cocoa Facts

Sources:

Should you try a gluten-free diet?

Gluten Intolerance Symptoms – How Do You Know If Gluten Is Making You Sick?

Images:

imagerymajestic, m_bartosch, Idea go, Boaz Yiftach, Ambro

Springtime for Migraine Sufferers- 8 Tips for Dealing with Pollen

Tuesday, March 27th, 2012


 


 

Guess what- spring came early this year!  What’s a migraine sufferer to do?  With fluffy pollen and migraine triggering flowery scents wafting through the air, spring season translates into migraine season.  Here are some tips for nipping those sinus headaches in the (rose) bud!

SPRINGTIME FOR MIGRAINE SUFFERERS- 8 TIPS FOR COPING

Is it global warming coming to fruition?  Don’t know, but  experts warn that this year, allergy season could last an extra month…that’s one more month of migraines triggered by sinus headaches, fragrant flowers, and the scent of fresh-cut grass (yuck!).

Here are eight great tips for coping with springtime migraines:

1- Take your vitamins, minerals, and herbs

Your best line of defense against migraines during allergy season can be found in your medicine cabinet.  Build your immunity and reduce the severity of migraine attacks by taking the full lineup of essential vitamins and minerals.

  • Vitamin C boosts your immune system by killing free radicals.
  • Magnesium reduces migraine symptoms, both in frequency and severity, by working with serotonin receptors
  • Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), one of many essential B vitamins, is affective at preventing migraines and muscular cramps.
  • Butterbur root is a natural antihistamine that has been used for centuries to relieve chronic headaches like migraines, in addition to respiratory illnesses.
  • Quercetin is a plant-based ingredient found in tealeaves that is helpful for relieving asthma, hay fever, headaches, and chronic fatigue.

Natural Migraine Remedies: 9 Must-Take Vitamins, Minerals, and Herbs

2- Shampoo, rinse, and repeat

You might not realize it, but your hair is a magnet for airborne pollen.  Every time you rest your head down on your pillow or brush your hair, you help to spread allergens throughout your home, and increase your chances of getting migraine attacks.  Wash your hair thoroughly every day, following the instructions on the bottle-shampoo, rinse, and repeat!

Keep a hairbrush in your mudroom or on the front porch, and give yourself a few swipes before entering the house.

3- Don’t forget Spot!

Now that your hair is clean and allergen-free, it’s time to wash the dog (or cat)! Pets love to roll around in the cool grass on a warm day, collecting dirt, pollen, leaves, and all kinds of questionable adornments that may give you headaches.  Keep your four-footed friends groomed, and remember to rinse their paws before coming into the home.

SPRINGTIME FOR MIGRAINE SUFFERERS- 8 TIPS FOR COPING

4- Dry clothes indoors

Air-drying your delicate linens is only a good idea if you don’t happen to be allergic to the air. If pollen and dust give you migraines, then hang your fine washables indoors, or use the gentle setting of your dryer.

Migraine Weather Triggers- Seasonal Migraines in the Fall

5- Wear your Migraine Glasses

It’s not summer yet, but that’s no reason not to wear your sunglasses.  Aside from reducing migraines by dimming bright lights, sunglasses also protect your sensitive eyes from dust, dirt, and pollen.

SPRINGTIME FOR MIGRAINE SUFFERERS- 8 TIPS FOR COPING

Lights…Camera…Migraine! 10 Curious Facts about Light Sensitivity

6- Hibernate

Stay indoors when pollen levels are high, typically in the early morning hours and on dry, windy days.  Visit the National Allergy Bureau to check up on pollen and mold counts in your area.  You can’t control the weather, but you can limit migraine triggers by thinking ahead!

7- Fans are not fantastic

Ceiling fans are great for saving money during the summer months, but in the springtime, you’re just spreading dust, mold, pollen, and other migraine-inducing chemicals around.  Whenever possible, opt for the AC, especially in your car.

13 Reasons your Migraines Hate the Summer Season

8- Copy the Chinese

Your feet track allergens, too!  Take off your shoes before entering the house, and ask that guests do the same.  Your carpet will stay clean longer, meaning fewer runs with the vacuum cleaner.  It’s a win-win habit for migraine sufferers!

SPRINGTIME FOR MIGRAINE SUFFERERS- 8 TIPS FOR COPING

Please tell us…

Do you have any questions or suggestions?  Please leave your comments below.

Share with your friends!

If you found this article helpful, then please share with your friends, family, and coworkers by email, Facebook, or Google+.

Read more about migraine triggers:

Avoiding Migraine Triggers- Here, There and Everywhere

34 Migraine-Inducing, Stomach-Turning Toxic Chemicals in Perfume

Sources:

A Survival Guide to Spring Allergy Season

NAB Pollen Counts

Image attributions:

Franco Folini, geishaboy500, OakleyOriginals

5 Anger Styles that Trigger Migraines

Monday, March 26th, 2012


 


 

Anger is a destructive, negative emotion that triggers migraines, in addition to harming your physical and mental health.  Hypertension, heart disease, and depression are all side effects of unresolved anger.  In managing your migraine triggers and reducing your number of migraine headaches, it is important to be able to recognize your anger style and nip it in the bud.

5 ANGER STYLES THAT TRIGGER MIGRAINES, migravent

1- Chronic Anger

If you’re addicted to anger, you never miss an opportunity to provoke a fight.  You love the “high” you get from a good emotional roller coaster, and anger is your drug of choice.  You are offended easily and might explode into a tantrum at the drop of a hat.  For the most part, you may be triggering your own migraines, so it’s essential that you ask yourself before you get all riled up, ”Is this worth the migraine it’ll cost me?”

Help! Migraines are ruining my Relationships

2- Behavioral anger

Do you act out your anger?  People who let anger rule their behavior are often aggressive, and subject to fits of rage- sometimes resulting in physical abuse.  If migraines ever make you angry enough to lash out with friends or family, then it’s important to identify this style and anger and seek professional help.

5 ANGER STYLES THAT TRIGGER MIGRAINES, migravent

3- Verbal anger

How do you express your anger…do you make sharp, cutting remarks, or yell obscenities?  Even if you would never raise your fist in anger, remember that verbal punches can hurt, too.  Next time you’re in the throes of a throbbing migraine headache that’s lasted for days, and somebody says or does something that really gets your goat, try to hold back your temper and your words, lest you ruin a valued relationship.

4- Shame-Based Anger

Over time, constant migraine headaches trigger depression, despair, and anguish in its sufferers.  Because chronic migraines interfere with your ability to work productively, socialize, or carry out basic tasks, you sometimes feel “broken” or worthless.  Feelings of guilt or inadequacy over cancelled appointments and missed birthdays because of migraine attacks may cause intense anger.  If you suspect that poor self-image is at the root of your anger issues, then own up to it.  Find out how other migraine patients cope with their chronic pain, and try to establish a healthier attitude towards yourself.

5- Unpredictable anger

Do you alternate from hot to cold, or have days when you are down in the dumps and others when you feel like you’re on top of the world?  Sometimes, anger erupts without following any pattern, fluctuating between mild annoyances to outright rage, depending on your mood.  Unpredictable anger and mood changes are sometimes comorbid conditions with migraine headaches.  Living with somebody who is a thunderstorm-waiting-to-happen can be stressful, even traumatic, so it’s important that you seek counseling.  By visiting a family or marital counselor and learning how to control your anger, you may save your relationships and your peace of mind while also preventing migraine attacks.

5 ANGER STYLES THAT TRIGGER MIGRAINES, migravent

Please tell us…

Do you recognize any of the anger styles listed?  All in all, there are close to a dozen different anger styles that may trigger migraines.  Do you suffer from anger, and if so, how do you cope?

Do you have any questions or suggestions?  Please leave your comments below.

Share with your friends!

If you found this article helpful, then please share with your friends, family, and coworkers by email, Facebook, or Google+.

Read more about migraine triggers:

Avoiding Migraine Triggers- Here, There and Everywhere

Night Terrors, Migraines, and Insomnia- 7 Nightmare Headaches

34 Migraine-Inducing, Stomach-Turning Toxic Chemicals in Perfume

Sources:

What’s your anger management style?

Types of Anger: 12 Most Common Types of Anger

Anger Management: Anger Issues and Types of Anger

Deep Brain Stimulation for Migraine Headaches- Is it safe?

Thursday, March 22nd, 2012


 


 

Migraine headaches can be excruciating to the point that you’ll stop at nothing short of reaching into your brain and groping around for the “off” switch.  Now, scientists hope to be able to cure migraines and other chronic headaches by doing just that.  Deep brain stimulation is currently being used to treat movement disorders multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease; still in it’s infancy stage is the possibility of using deep brain stimulation to treat migraine headaches, as well.

DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION FOR MIGRAINE HEADACHES- IS IT SAFE? MIGRAVENT

What is deep brain stimulation (DBS)?

Deep brain stimulation is a therapy that uses a battery-operated “neurostimulator” to treat certain areas of the brain with electrical impulses.

  • First, a neurostimulator is surgically implanted under your skin around your collarbone, chest area, or stomach.  This device is similar to a pacemaker, and used to generate electrical shocks.
  • Next, a thin wire extension is inserted under your skin, acting as a conduit between the neurostimulator and a small electrode.
  • Finally, by drilling a small hole into the base of the skull, electrodes are embedded into your brain, where they transmit electric impulses to certain targeted areas.

Deep brain stimulation- who is it for?

All patients considering DBS must undergo an MRI or CT scan before surgery, in order to reduce the risk of post-op hemorrhaging and to determine which areas of the brain to target.

Currently, neurological clinics offering deep brain stimulation use it to treat people with severe movement disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, essential tremor, dystonia, and Parkinson’s disease.

While the FDA has approved the use of DBS for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), that is still in an experimental stage.

Other illnesses that scientists hope to cure with deep brain stimulation include:

  • Cluster headache
  • Migraine headache
  • Tourette’s
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Chronic back pain
  • Severe depression
  • Epilepsy
  • Addiction

Only people with debilitating neurological impairments who have failed to respond to standard treatment are considered for deep brain stimulation.

Diagnosing Constant Migraines with a Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) – What to Expect

Risk factors of deep brain stimulation

Deep brain stimulation is a form of brain surgery, so all standard risk factors apply.

  • Approximately 2-3% of people who undergo DBS suffer a major brain hemorrhage as a result, causing paralysis, stroke, or permanent speech impairments.
  • Approximately 15% of DBS patients suffer some minor or temporary ailment.
  • Infection may occur, requiring a return to the hospital in order to remove electrodes.
  • Today’s deep brain stimulation procedure is less risky than previous years’, which used to involve damaging certain areas of the brain.

Is DBS safe for treating migraines?

Yes and no.

People who qualify for deep brain stimulation surgery suffer from immense, debilitating chronic headaches that significantly reduce their quality of life and are otherwise incurable.

It can’t be stressed enough that DBS is meant to be used as a last resort, when all other attempts at alleviating migraine headaches have failed, including all prescription medications for migraines, alternative medicine for migraines, and migraine management through diet, exercise, and relaxation.

Is it worth the gamble?  That question is up to you and your neurologist.  Three percent might seem like an insignificant risk, but it still implies that out of 100 people, three may incur serious and lasting brain damage.

For more information, see the Cleveland Clinic page on Deep Brain Stimulation.

DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION FOR MIGRAINE HEADACHES- IS IT SAFE? MIGRAVENT

Please tell us…

Would you consider participating in a study on deep brain stimulation for treating migraines, if asked?

Have you exhausted all other migraine treatments, like magnesium supplements, herbs such as butterbur, restrictive dieting, and acupuncture?

Do you have any questions or suggestions?  Please leave your comments below.

Share with your friends!

If you found this article helpful, then please share with your friends, family, and coworkers by email, Facebook, or Google+.

Read more about migraine symptoms:

Migraine Excitotoxins- What’s so exciting about them?

Brain Drain from Migraines…What’s Causing it?

Killer Migraines Might be Fatal after All- Mortality Rates among Migraine Sufferers

Sources:

What is deep brain stimulation?

Deep brain stimulation in headache

Deep Brain Stimulation is helping Chronic Cluster Patients

Integrative Medicine for Migraines- East meets West

Tuesday, March 20th, 2012


 


 

Integrative medicine can help you find relief from migraine headaches, finally.  A new twist on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), integrative medicine takes traditional medicine and incorporates natural remedies such as medicinal herbs and magnesium supplements for treating migraines.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE FOR MIGRAINES- EAST MEETS WEST, MIGRAVENT

What is integrative medicine?

When you combine Western medicine with ancient Chinese therapy, what you end up with is the latest and freshest approach to holistic medicine.  Sort of a fusion between science-based therapies and natural cures, integrative medicine (IM) can help prevent chronic migraine headaches by healing the body from within without ignoring the latest scientific research on migraine treatments.

“Integrative medicine combines conventional and CAM treatments for which there is evidence of safety and effectiveness.”

- The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine at the National Institutes of Health

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE FOR MIGRAINES- EAST MEETS WEST, MIGRAVENT

Natural Supplements and Herbs for migraines

What’s the difference between integrative and alternative medicine?

Alternative medicine focuses on treating ailments such as migraine headaches with herbal remedies, yoga, and meditation as a substitute for conventional medicine.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE FOR MIGRAINES- EAST MEETS WEST, MIGRAVENT

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) for Chronic Pain

Integrative medicine does not emphasize using naturopathic medicine instead of mainstream migraine treatments, but rather using both schools of thought to complement each other.

An integrative medical doctor might diagnose migraine disorder and prescribe migraine abortive medication, while at the same time advocating dietary and herbal supplements, natural anti- inflammatory treatments, and alternative medicine therapies such as acupuncture, biofeedback, and stress management.

Integrative medicine for migraines heals the whole person- mind, body, and soul- instead of simply treating the symptoms of migraines.

How do I find an integrative doctor for migraines?

Chances are good that any competent migraine specialist already incorporates integrative medicine into his practice.  Ask your doctor if he advises alternative treatments like vitamin supplements, herbal remedies, diet, and exercise in addition to traditional migraine meds as a means of preventing migraine attacks.

For advice on becoming your own advocate of integrative medicine for treating migraines, read Dr. Andrew Weil’s book, Eight Weeks to Optimum Health. Dr. Weil is a long-time supporter of the integration of modern medicine with ancient and alternative therapies.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE FOR MIGRAINES- EAST MEETS WEST, MIGRAVENT

Please tell us…

What are your thoughts on using integrative medicine for treating migraine headaches?

Have you tried using herbal supplements and vitamins like riboflavin, magnesium, coenzyme Q10, and butterbur to prevent migraine headaches?

Do you currently use natural remedies for migraines in addition to prescribed migraine painkillers?

Tell your friends!

Please share this article with your friends, family, or anybody you care about!

Read more about natural migraine treatments:

Natural Migraine Remedies Surge with Prescription Drug Deaths

Rub out Migraine Headaches with 5 Chinese Acupressure Points

Natural Migraine Remedies: 9 Must-Take Vitamins, Minerals, and Herbs

Sources:

How Integrative Medicine Can Help You Be Healthier- Real Simple

What Is Integrative Medicine?

National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Brain Drain from Migraines…What’s Causing it?

Monday, March 19th, 2012


 


 

Brain drain- it’s a symptom of migraines that you could do without.  Difficulty concentrating, feeling as if your brain is lost in a fog, (hence the other popular term “brain fog”), always feeling tired, and constantly forgetting where you left your keys…fatigue symptoms like brain drain could be caused by migraine headaches, or they could indicate another comorbid illness.

BRAIN FOG FROM MIGRAINES…OR SOMETHING ELSE? MIGRAVENT.COM

Why am I always tired?

When chronic pain is so powerful that it overwhelms your senses, as with migraine headaches, concentrating on anything else outside of the throbbing head pain and eye sensitivity can be a challenge.  Chronic headaches make it difficult to sleep, remember appointments, pay attention to somebody who’s speaking to you, or even concentrate on getting your bottle of migraine remedies open.

Brain drain from migraines

The “brain drain” you feel is most likely caused by chronic fatigue resulting from constant migraine headaches, especially migraines with aura.

Symptoms of brain fog include:

  • Frequent feelings of confusion
  • Extreme fatigue, despite sleeping and avoiding overexertion
  • Difficulty remembering PINs, phone numbers, and dates
  • Forgetting what you were going to say, or why you entered a room
  • Feeling distracted when people are talking to you
  • Inability to focus on a conversation, by telephone or in person
  • Decreased attention span
  • Difficulty reading
  • Trouble remembering people’s names

Other causes of brain drain

Even if you believe migraine headaches are the cause of your chronic fatigue, it is crucial to tell your doctor of your migraine symptoms, so that he can rule out other comorbid illnesses or conditions that could be contributing to your attention difficulties.

Here are some other reasons you might be suffering from brain fog:

BRAIN FOG FROM MIGRAINES…OR SOMETHING ELSE? MIGRAVENT.COMMenopause

An overwhelming majority of migraine sufferers are women, so it’s worth noting that chronic fatigue that occurs with migraines could also be a symptom of menopause.

According to the latest research published by the journal Menopause, common complaints of women as they enter menopause include hot flashes, night sweats, and memory loss caused by “brain fog.”

Autoimmune disorder

Brain drain is also a common symptom of many autoimmune disorders, including vitamin B12 deficiency (pernicious anemia), fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), thyroiditis, multiple sclerosis (MS), Sjogren’s syndrome, or lupus.

Migraine drug side effects

BRAIN FOG FROM MIGRAINES…OR SOMETHING ELSE? MIGRAVENT.COM

Improve your Memory while taking Topamax for Migraines

Certain migraine medications cause side effects that include memory loss.  Anti-seizure drugs like Topamax, Depacon, Neurontin, and Lamictal are often helpful in reducing migraine symptoms, but they may also cause disturbing and sometimes debilitating side effects.

Side effects of anticonvulsant medications may include:

  • Attention problems (brain fog, brain drain symptoms)
  • Muddled thinking
  • Memory loss
  • Speech difficulties
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Anxiety
  • Moodiness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Dry mouth
  • Burning or tingling sensations
  • Altered taste perception
  • Decreased coordination
  • Frequent stumbling or dropping things
  • Muscular soreness and weakness
  • Lower back pain
  • Frequent colds or viral infections

Please tell us…

Are you currently using a migraine treatment that causes side effects like attention problems, memory loss, or fatigue?

If so, have you considered replacing them with natural migraine remedies that don’t cause harmful reactions, like magnesium, riboflavin (vitamin B2), and coenzyme Q10?

We love to hear from you!  Please comment below with your questions or suggestions.

Spread the love…

Please share this article with your friends, family, or anybody you care about!

Read more about migraine symptoms:

Migraine Symptoms throughout the Ages- Not a Whole Lot has changed

Killer Migraines Might be Fatal after All- Mortality Rates among Migraine Sufferers

Migraine Headaches and Dizziness- Stop the Ride, I want to get off!

Sources:

Reconciling subjective memory complaints with objective memory performance in the menopausal transition

Topamax Side Effects

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) for Chronic Pain

Tuesday, March 13th, 2012


 


 

Prescription pain pills may do more harm than good- that’s why more chronic pain patients are using complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to relieve chronic pain suffering like migraines, fibromyalgia, and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).  Alternative medicine treats the body as a whole; used properly, many herbal and vitamin supplements, combined with relaxation and gentle yoga, offer many migraine sufferers an opportunity to reduce chronic pain symptoms like headaches and muscular stiffness without causing any dangerous side effects.

Here are some of the most popular CAM treatments used to alleviate chronic pain.

Natural Migraine Remedies Surge with Prescription Drug Deaths

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE FOR CHRONIC PAIN, INCLUDING MIGRAINE HEADACHES, MIGRAVENT

What is chronic pain?

Chronic pain is any condition that causes long periods of painful suffering, for months or years, in the absence of any kind of visible treatable injury.  Chronic pain conditions such as migraine headaches and back pain interfere with your quality of life, making it difficult to sleep well, perform your job duties, drive a car, or take care of your own basic needs.

Some common chronic pain disorders are:

  • Migraines
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Arthritis
  • Neuropathy (nerve damage)
  • Lower back pain
  • Endometriosis
  • Interstitial cystitis
  • Cancer pain
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction
  • Vulvodynia (chronic vulvar pain)

Women get the Lion’s Share of Migraines and Chronic Pain

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE FOR CHRONIC PAIN, INCLUDING MIGRAINE HEADACHES, MIGRAVENT

Natural supplements

In using herbal remedies and vitamin supplements to treat chronic pain, it’s important to remember that even natural alternative medicine must be used responsibly with the advice of a medical practitioner.  “Natural” doesn’t always equal safe for everybody.  Certain vitamins like vitamin A and vitamin E can become toxic if taken in excess quantities. Using a natural migraine treatment as a blood thinner may relieve migraine headaches, but only use under your doctor’s supervision.

Natural supplements used for chronic pain include:

  • Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) for migraines
  • Coenzyme Q10 for migraines
  • Butterbur root
  • Topical capsaicin cream for diabetic neuropathy and arthritis
  • Chondroitin for arthritis pain
  • Fish oil for chronic pain from swelling
  • Glucosamine for osteoarthritis


Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient Eastern medical practice that involves inserting thin needles into the body in order to treat chronic pain.  Western medicine is much more open to the notion of using Chinese acupuncture than ever before- what used to be considered an alien, almost exotic branch of medicine is now mainstream.  Acupuncture doesn’t guarantee immediate results, but with continued practice, many people suffering from anxiety, gastrointestinal disorders, chronic pain, and numerous other ailments have found significant relief through acupuncture.

“Acupuncture releases natural pain-relieving opioids, sends signals that calm the sympathetic nervous system, and releases neurochemicals and hormones.”  -About.com

Rub out Migraine Headaches with 5 Chinese Acupressure Points

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE FOR CHRONIC PAIN, INCLUDING MIGRAINE HEADACHES, MIGRAVENT


Chiropractic manipulation

Chiropractic care relieves chronic pain by adjusting your spine or other parts of your body back to its correct alignment.

  • Spinal manipulation involves forcefully manipulating a certain joint outside of its usual range of movement as a means of providing chronic pain relief and healing an injury.  Spinal manipulation is used by chiropractors and massage therapists.
  • Osteopathic Manipulation, practiced by osteopathic physicians, restores bodily function and relieves chronic pain by combining Osteopathic Manipulative Technique (OMT) healing with proper posture training and osteopathic philosophy.

Exercise

Exercising might be the last thing on your mind if you suffer from chronic pain, but numerous studies prove that incorporating even small amounts of gentle stretching or light walking into your daily life contributes to chronic pain relief, decreased stress, and improved cardiovascular health.

Some recommended exercises for chronic pain include:

  • Walking
  • Low-impact aerobics
  • Yoga
  • Tai chi

Natural Migraine Remedies: 9 Must-Take Vitamins, Minerals, and Herbs

Natural Migraine Remedies Surge with Prescription Drug Deaths

Relaxation

Learning how to relax in any situation is instrumental in dealing with chronic pain, reducing stress, and maintaining a sense of wellbeing.

Popular relaxation techniques include:

  • Hypnotherapy
  • Biofeedback
  • Guided imagery
  • Progressive relaxation
  • Music therapy
  • Aromatherapy
  • Massage
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy

Please tell us…

Are you an ex-chronic pain sufferer who has found relieve using CAM?  Please share your experience! We welcome your comments, suggestions, and questions.

Spread the love…

Please share this article with your friends, family, or anybody you care about!

Read more about natural migraine treatments:

Natural Migraine Remedies: 9 Must-Take Vitamins, Minerals, and Herbs

30 Natural Herbs for Headache Relief, plus Chinese Remedy

Sources:

Chronic Pain and CAM: At a Glance

Alternative Treatments for Chronic Pain

Dietary Reference Intakes:  Elements

To Prevent Migraines, eat 11 Pounds of Beef

Tuesday, March 6th, 2012


 


 

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), which occurs in beef and fish, is vital for preventing migraines, boosting the immunity, and protecting your nerve cells from free radicals.  In many studies on migraine disorder, patients with severe migraine headaches who took Coenzyme Q10 saw a significant reduction in migraine attacks after only one month of migraine treatments.  But other than eating 173 ounces of fried beef, what are some other ways to get enough CoQ10 to prevent migraines?

PREVENTING MIGRAINES WITH COENZYME Q10- HOW TO GET 150 MG PER DAY, MIGRAVENT

What is Coenzyme Q10?

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), otherwise known as vitamin Q and ubiquinone, is a fat-soluble compound produced by your body for generating cellular energy in the mitochondria.  Health benefits associated with coenzyme Q10 include:

  • Preventing heart disease
  • Strengthening your immune system
  • Lowering blood pressure
  • Improving your response to cancer treatments
  • Protecting your brain cells from free radical damage
  • Preventing fibromyalgia and migraine attacks
  • Also read Got your Vitamin Q?

Proof that Coenzyme Q10 prevents migraines

Numerous studies have been conducted in finding the most effective cure for migraines, and several have included coenzyme Q10 as one of many natural migraine treatments.

  • In a study published by Cephalalgia, 150 mg of CoQ10 was given to 32 patients who suffered from chronic migraines, with and without aura.
  • After one month of migraine treatment, migraine attack frequency was reduced by 13.1%.
  • Three months of treatment with CoQ10 resulted in 55.3% fewer migraine headaches than previously.
  • No side effects from CoQ10 supplementation were noted by scientists during this trial.
  • Overall, 61.3% of migraine patients who took 150 mg of coenzyme Q10 each day were rewarded with at least 50% migraine headache prevention in frequency and severity.
  • Also read Coenzyme Q10 Benefits and Dosage Information

Which foods have the most coenzyme Q10?

The richest food sources of CoQ10 have only a few grams per serving, and much of that is lost during cooking over high heat, such as frying.

Here are some migraine-preventing foods that are high in CoQ10, according to the Linus Pauling Institute:

  • Fried beef, one 3-ounce serving-  2.6 mg
  • Pickled herring, one 3-ounce serving- 2.3 mg
  • Fried chicken, one 3-ounce serving- 1.4 mg
  • Soybean oil, 1 tablespoon- 1.3 mg
  • Canola oil, 1 tablespoon- 1.0 mg
  • Steamed rainbow trout, one 3-ounce serving- 0.9 mg
  • Roasted peanuts, 1 ounce- 0.8 mg
  • Roasted sesame seeds, 1 ounce- 0.7 mg

PREVENTING MIGRAINES WITH COENZYME Q10- HOW TO GET 150 MG PER DAY, MIGRAVENT

Other sources of CoQ10 include broccoli, pistachios, cauliflower, oranges, strawberries, and eggs.

How much fried beef can one person eat?

If you don’t suffer from migraines, fibromyalgia, or hypertension, then you get plenty of coenzyme Q10 from food sources- enough to avoid deficiency.

But what if you need extra doses of CoQ10 in order to prevent recurring migraine attacks?  How many ounces of beef, fish, or beans would you have to eat, assuming that soybeans and peanuts are not migraine triggers?

  • 57.7 servings of fried beef, or about 11 lbs.
  • 65.2 servings of marinated herring, or about 12 lbs.
  • 20 lbs. of fried chicken
  • 150 tablespoons of canola oil
  • 11.7 lbs. of roasted peanuts

PREVENTING MIGRAINES WITH COENZYME Q10- HOW TO GET 150 MG PER DAY, MIGRAVENT

Wouldn’t be easier to take CoQ10 supplements?

Yes.  Many natural migraine treatments include enough coenzyme Q10 to provide maximum migraine prevention.

To keep migraine attacks at bay, look for quality ingredients, including a mixture of the following potent vitamins, minerals, and herbs:

  • Coenzyme Q10
  • Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
  • Magnesium
  • Butterbur, PA-free

Please tell us…

What natural migraine treatments have you tried for preventing migraine attacks?

Have you asked your headache specialist about the effectiveness of riboflavin, magnesium, and CoQ10 in reducing migraine severity and frequency?

If you’ve tried many prescribed migraine drugs without finding relief, what is the main reason that is holding you back from trying alternative medications for migraines?

Spread the love…

Please share this article with your friends, family, or anybody you care about!

Read more about natural migraine treatments:

The Do-it-Yourself Migraine Detox Diet: What to Expect

Natural Migraine Remedies Surge with Prescription Drug Deaths

Natural Migraine Remedies: 9 Must-Take Vitamins, Minerals, and Herbs

Sources:

Coenzyme Q10- Linus Pauling Institute

Open label trial of coenzyme Q10 as a migraine preventive- PubMed, NCBI

Coenzyme Q10 Effective for Migraine Prevention

Working with Migraines is no Laughing Matter, Comedian Russell Brand Agrees

Friday, February 24th, 2012


 


 

“I’m worried this might be the early stages of a migraine.  I get this light disruption thing.” Those were the words of Russell Brand a few weeks ago, echoing the concerns of millions of other migraine headache sufferers around the world. Only instead of retreating to a quiet shade-drawn bedroom to stave off the coming migraine attack, he continued his 90-minute comedy act under a bright Hollywood spotlight, migraine, nausea, and all.

MIGRAINES ARE NO LAUGHING MATTER, COMEDIAN RUSSELL BRAND AGREES, MIGRAVENT

Migraines are equal-opportunity destroyers

MIGRAINES ARE NO LAUGHING MATTER, COMEDIAN RUSSELL BRAND AGREES, MIGRAVENTWhen “Get him to the Greek” star Russell Brand had an on-stage migraine attack recently, his audience got a taste of what it’s like to be struck suddenly with crippling migraines.

First came the light sensitivity; he apologized to his audience for the delay as he halted his routine for a moment, explaining that the bright lights of the stage were probably triggering his migraines.

Next, he revealed that he had terrible pain, and needed painkillers.  “I feel nauseous now,” he said.  “I feel sick.  Sorry about this.”

A stagehand brought him some migraine painkillers, and Russell continued his show, still apologetic.

“I think I’m such a professional showman this is beyond ridiculous stopping to take medication.”

For most migraineurs, getting on-the-spot medical attention for a migraines is like squeezing sugar from a lemon; it’s a long, nasty process with fruitless results.

Why the apologies?

We’ve all been there, yet it’s still hard to watch.  When people suffer from chronic pain, they shouldn’t have to apologize for it.  Yet that’s exactly what Russell Brand did for his audience when he felt the first symptoms of a migraine attack striking while he was performing onstage, fresh after signing divorce papers for his estranged ex-wife, Katy Perry.

MIGRAINES ARE NO LAUGHING MATTER, COMEDIAN RUSSELL BRAND AGREES, MIGRAVENT

Such is the dilemma for all people who get frequent migraines, celebrities included; once you feel the telltale signs of an approaching migraine, your only thought is to escape by whatever means possible.  Locate your nearest exit, retreat, and apologize profusely along the way.  (Except when you can’t.)

By the way…

MIGRAINES ARE NO LAUGHING MATTER, COMEDIAN RUSSELL BRAND AGREES, MIGRAVENTCoincidentally, rapper Diddy was recently hospitalized for a migraine attack that occurred after a post-Grammy party at the Playboy Mansion.

Imagine anybody else calling 911 and explaining that he was hung over from a giant Hollywood bash, and was suffering from a killer migraine, and could somebody please take him to the hospital; or strolling into ER, wanting attention for a migraine headache that was triggered by too much partying.

For most migraineurs, getting on-the-spot medical attention for a migraine is like squeezing sugar from a lemon; it’s a long, nasty process with fruitless results.

Migraines are disabling

Fortunately, Russell Brand only had to endure 90 minutes of work time before being allowed to go home and wait out the migraine storm.  And most likely, his job prospects are still good.  Not to begrudge him his well-deserved fame, but for millions of blue-collar migraine patients, that is not the reality.

Most migraine patients have only three options regarding migraines and work:

  1. suffer the migraine attack in silence until 5:00,
  2. miss work, or
  3. miss work while trying for months or years to qualify for disability insurance, which is always a gamble.

MIGRAINES ARE NO LAUGHING MATTER, COMEDIAN RUSSELL BRAND AGREES, MIGRAVENT

Please share your thoughts…

  • Do you think media attention on migraines will bring us closer to getting a cure?
  • Have you been denied disability, even though your migraines keep you from working?
  • What migraine treatments do you currently use, and how satisfied are you with their results?
  • As always, we welcome your comments, suggestions, and questions!

Spread the love…

Please share this article with your friends, family, or anybody you care about!

Read more about migraines at work:

Migraine Headaches Are Not an ADA Disability, Says US Court

Migraines at Work- Can my Employers Fire me from my Job?

Social Security Disability for Migraine- 5 Tips for Filing

Sources:

Russell Brand Forced To Stop Show After Migraine Attack

Russell Brand Suffers Migraine Attack Onstage

Diddy Hospitalized For Extreme Migraine Headache: REPORT