Knowing How Migraines Can Impact Your Life On The Road
Have you ever had a migraine out on the road? – Can you even think of anything worse than having a migraine while driving? 30 million people in the United States are migraine sufferers, and for those that don’t know – a migraine is a headache that pulsates on one side of the head. Migraine pain typically lasts for several days, however the symptoms and duration often vary from person to person.
How To Identify A Migraine:
- Aura – Many migraine sufferers suffer visual symptoms called auras. Those effected see flickering lights, spots, and lines. These can last anywhere from 5-60 minutes, and the pain of the headache shortly follows.
- Mood Changes – Oftentimes, mood changes can signify the onset of a migraine. Some of these moods include depression, excitement, and irritability.
- Lack Of Sleep – Receiving little to no sleep, or sleep of poor quality is something that many migraine sufferers deal with on a regular basis – this symptom can also be a trigger a migraine.
- Irregular Sinus Activity – Sinus activity such as a stuffy nose, nasal drainage, and tearing are common problems associated with sinus and migraine headaches.
- Cravings – Oftentimes, migraine sufferers crave chocolate before the onset of a migraine.
- Throbbing/Pulsating Pain – Typically those with migraines will experience a severe changing pain at the sides of their heads.
- Eye/Neck Pain – Migraine pain often occurs behind the eye area, and oftentimes the necks of those that have headaches become very stiff.
- Sensitivity – Migraine pain can be worsened by fluctuations in light, movement, sounds, and physical activity.
- Uncontrollable Yawning – Many migraine sufferers experience seemingly uncontrollable yawning when a migraine is beginning.
What Can Be Done To Combat A Migraine?
- Seek Help
- Document your symptoms. – Write it all down. How are you feeling, what are you craving, what did you do today, what did you eat, and what medications do you take? All of this information may be of interest if you choose to see your doctor.
- Document your life events. – What are your stressors? Your doctor will want to know if a life change or excessive stressor is causing these problems.
- Get Some Sleep
- Try To De-Stress/Relax
- Try A Prescribed or Over-The-Counter Pain-Killer
- Eat Well
- Drink Lots of Water
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