Migraine is a functional disorder that causes sudden, intense pain, which can be accompanied by other symptoms or signs that make it even harder to deal with, explains Dr. Marco Antonio Alegría Loyola, neurology specialist at ABC Medical Center.
“According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it’s one of the 20 most disabling conditions, and it occurs in women in 75% of cases.”
For some people, migraines come with warning signs that an episode is on the way, these can include visual disturbances like seeing flashes of light or losing part of the visual field, as well as blurry or hazy vision. Feeling dizzy or off-balance can also be an early sign that a migraine is coming.
People often mistake a regular headache for a migraine, but this condition can actually be disabling for those who experience it, which is why it’s important to pay attention to warning signs and any changes you notice.
The most important thing when living with migraines is to stay informed, notes Dr. Alegría, since this can help you manage them more effectively, it’s important to understand that you shouldn’t just get used to the pain, since migraines can be treated.
Medical treatments, and even alternative therapies, can help reduce symptoms; these can range from medication, ice, or a cool damp cloth, to cooling ointments. Everyone experiences migraines differently, and the type of treatment that works can vary as well.
It’s also important to identify any foods that might trigger episodes, such as cured meats, Chinese food, soy, or red wine, among others. Once these trigger foods have been identified, it’s recommended to reduce or eliminate them from your diet.
Most importantly, if migraines become frequently disabling or start interfering with your daily life, it’s important to see a doctor right away. If you experience any neurological symptoms, such as paralysis, vision loss, or even loss of consciousness, it’s also important to seek medical attention, since this could be caused by the migraine itself, or by another underlying condition.
At ABC Medical Center’s Neurology Center, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
