Migraine Headache |
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DESCRIPTION
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Migraine headaches typically affect one side of the head. They can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Some people have them weekly, others have fewer than one a year. Migraines usually begin sometime between the teen years and the age of 40, and can be classified as either ""classic'' or ""common.''
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CAUSES
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At the onset of a migraine, the blood vessels in your head first shrink, then swell, causing pain. Tension, bright lights, loud noises, strong smells, weather changes, fatigue, missed meals, and emotional upset all may trigger a migraine. The headaches may also be brought on by many common foods and beverages, including lunch meat, hot dogs, alcohol, beans, coffee or tea, cheese, chocolate, nuts, pickles, raisins, and canned soup. Artificial sweeteners can trigger a migraine. Many women get the headaches before or during their monthly period.
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SYMPTOMS
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You may know you are going to have a migraine before the headache starts. Warning signs include nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to noise, light, or smells. Classic migraines begin with warning signs such as flashing lights or colors. You may feel as though you are looking through a tunnel. One side of your body may feel prickly, hot, or weak. These warning signs last about 15 to 30 minutes and are followed by pain in your head. Common migraines do not have the same warning signs. However, you may feel tired, depressed, restless, or talkative for 2 or 3 days before the headache starts.
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CARE
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There are a number of prescription medications for migraine. They tend to work better if you take the medicine as soon as your headache starts. Discuss these and other methods of preventing migraines with your doctor.
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