Migraine and other type of headaches in Noida | Noida Pain Management Clinic
One of the most common, yet very bothersome pain conditions which can cause a lot of stress for a patient is migraines. Though there can be a vast majority of different headaches (Tension-type headache, Cluster headache, cervicogenic headache, Occipital neuralgia etc.),The most common headache disorder for which patients' seek medical attention, is Migraine affecting almost 85-90% of the population. Tension type headache patients usually take over the counter medicines and rarely visit a doctor unless its chronic.
It is vital to identify the type of headache that the patient is suffering from. A lot of patients are misclassified as having tension-type headaches and thus the treatment doesn’t work. At Noida Pain Management Clinic, our aim is to provide treatment of migraine with a few medicines and some lifestyle changes. Most patients of Migraines live a normal pain-free life.
Migraine-
A very common type of headache usually occurs in the age group of 25-55 years, mostly females. In a large majority of patients, this can be very stressful. 20-30 years back, it was said that a person will have to live with migraine for his whole life but now a lot has changed. Now we have very effective and safe medications which can give long-lasting relief to patients.
How does a typical patient of Migraine behave-
A patient of a migraine will complain of headaches for many months/years. In between there would be episodes of very severe headaches which may last from 3-4 hours up to 3 days.
Pain is throbbing in nature and the patient describes it “As if someone is hitting my head with a hammer”. Mostly pain occurs on one side of the head but can involve both sides in a few patients.
During these attacks, the patient avoids bright light and loud sounds. He prefers to avoid sunlight and traveling and wants to lie down in a dark room.
Most patients feel nausea and vomiting during or just before headaches.
Routine painkillers don’t work. Some patients can take up to 2-3 painkillers in a day without any relief.
Diagnosis of Migraine- Migraine diagnosis is made by a doctor by clinical examination and history. There is no test that is confirmatory for the diagnosis of migraines. If a migraine is present for a long time, then a simple MRI of the brain is sometimes advised so that any other disease of the brain is ruled out.
Management- Migraine treatment is different from other chronic pain conditions as it involves a close association of patients with doctors for best results. We at Noida Pain Management Clinic make it a point to educate patients about all aspects of migraine for the best results from migraine pain. We incorporate the following suggestions in our treatment protocol-
Regular walk and exercise are initially advised.
Regular meal pattern- Fasting or missing a meal should be avoided. Patients are advised to eat at regular intervals as fasting may trigger an attack of migraine.
Medicines- Most patients get long-lasting relief with the use of medicines. There are more than 6-7 types of nerve medicines for migraine which are very helpful for most patients. Almost 80-90% of migraine patients can be easily managed with medicines and lifestyle changes.
Cervical facet joint block- These blocks are usually done for cervicogenic headache and their role in migraine is very limited.
Botox injection and various other nerve blocks in those patients who are not responding to medical treatment.
Sleep hygiene for migraine patients- Sleep hygiene is a variety of habits and practices which are necessary to have a good night sleep quality and quantity. For migraine patients its paramount to maintain regular sleep patterns.
Best Sleep hygiene tips-
Getting Regular- One of the best ways to train your body to sleep well, is to try to go to bed and get up almost at the same time every day.
Sleep only when sleepy- Rather than spending too much time in bed, sleep only when feeling tired or sleepy.
Raising temperature- One of the most consistent habits to improve sleep is to take a hot bath, 1-2 hr before sleep or exercise 2-3 hrs before sleep. Both activities increase the body temperature which slowly falls down. Evidence shows that sleep is associated with a drop in body temperature.
Avoid stimulants- Avoid tea and smoking at least 4 hrs before sleep. These stimulants interrupt a good night's sleep.
Avoid heavy food- Meal should preferably be taken at least 2 hrs before sleep. That said one should also be not hungry as an empty stomach could be distracting. Oily and fatty food should best be avoided so should be carbonated drinks.
Naps- Daytime naps should be avoided. However, in some people, a short daytime nap of 30-45 min may improve performance, mood, and alertness.
Just for sleeping- The bed should be used only for sleeping. Studying, watching TV, and doing office work should not be done in bed as it interferes with sleep.
Surroundings- A comfortable cool bedroom with darkness is a must for comfortable sleep. Minimal noise will often help the onset of sleep. Bright light from lamps, TV, and mobiles may make it difficult to sleep. Blackout curtains, earplugs, and eyeshades all can help in this.
Avoid alcohol- Though some feel that alcohol helps them fall asleep, the quality of sleep is poor. In 2nd half of the night when the body begins to process alcohol, it leads to frequent disruptions.
Exercise- Even 10-20 min of exercise every day (walking, running, cycling) can make a marked difference in sleep quality.
Sunlight exposure- Exposure to sunlight during the day, as well as darkness during the night, helps to maintain a healthy sleep-wake cycle.
Sleep rituals- A regular routine may help the body recognize that it is bedtime. This could be reading a book; light stretches or 10 min meditation.
Disclaimer: The information provided here should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. The information is provided solely for educational purpose and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice.
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