What we know about migraine

Those who do not suffer from migraines often perceive them as nothing more than a bad headache. In reality, the condition is far worse, rendering the sufferer totally unable to maintain a normal existence until the attack passes.

What is a migraine?

10% of people in the UK are afflicted by migraines. The usual symptoms are a throbbing headache (often one-sided), nausea and an acute sensitivity to light and sound. A 'sign' such as blurred vision - bilateral or 'zig-zagging' flashing lights, tunnel vision or black spots - will usually precede attacks. Numbness of the face, lips, arms and legs or distorted speech are not uncommon.

What causes a migraine?

Doctors are rarely able to pinpoint the exact cause of migraines in individual cases, but it is thought to be brought on by one, or a few, of the following...

Food and Drink

Alcohol, especially red wine. Foods with monosodium glutamate (MSG). Foods that contain tyramine, such as aged cheeses. Preserved meats with nitrates and nitrites.

Common foods containing MSG are: gelatins, baking mixtures, oriental foods, crisps, breaded food, processed meats, canned meats, relishes, cheese dips, salad dressing, seasonings, salt substitute, croutons, soup, soy sauce, dry roasted peanuts.
Common foods containing Nitrates are: bacon, pork, baked beans, corned beef, salami, sausage, smoked fish, ham, spam and other lunchmeats.

Sleep

Too much or too little sleep can set off a migraine attack. Regulating sleep pattern can help reduce the risk of migraines read more