Discover 5 Astonishing Facts About Migraines
Feeling dizzy, nauseous, and desperate for a dark, quiet room? If you suffer from migraines, this likely sounds all too familiar.
A migraine is a severe and recurring type of headache involving nerves, blood vessels, and brain chemicals. These headaches often come with additional symptoms like nausea or visual disturbances. Many people also experience increased sensitivity to light or see visual auras, known as aura migraines.
While you might already know the common symptoms, here are 5 interesting facts about migraines you might not be aware of:
1. **Women Experience More Migraines Than Men**
Women are more prone to migraines than men, primarily due to genetics and hormonal factors. Hormonal changes during menstruation or hormone replacement therapy after menopause can trigger migraines. Around 12%-14% of women get migraines compared to just 6%-8% of men.
2. **Behavioral Changes Can Signal an Oncoming Migraine**
Before a migraine starts, you might notice changes in your mood, such as increased irritability or feeling unusually down. This is especially common in women with hormonal imbalances linked to migraines.
3. **Acupuncture Might Help**
A German study involving 794 migraine sufferers who experienced at least 2 to 6 migraines a month explored the benefits of acupuncture. Participants received either traditional acupuncture, sham acupuncture (using non-traditional points), or standard migraine medication. After ten half-hour sessions over six weeks, 47% of those who received real acupuncture and 39% of those who had sham acupuncture saw a 50% reduction in headache frequency.
4. **Skim Milk Could Be Beneficial**
Skim milk is rich in riboflavin, a B vitamin that helps increase cellular energy. According to Joy Bauer’s book “Food Cures,” increased cellular energy can help combat migraines, especially those linked to low cellular energy levels.
5. **Magnesium Deficiency Might Be a Culprit**
Low magnesium levels have been associated with migraines. Eating magnesium-rich foods like beans and spinach can help. In some cases, doctors might even prescribe magnesium supplements to treat migraines in individuals with a deficiency.
If you have frequent migraines or over-the-counter medications aren’t providing relief, it’s best to consult your doctor.
