Caffeine: the culprit behind our migraines

Agnes, a 39-year-old married woman has come to see a doctor and complained about recurring headaches and migraines. A thorough examination revealed that there wasn't any obvious cause and her doctor thinks Agnes’ headaches are more psychological in origin. On further investigation, Agnes told her doctor that she was taking a lot of painkillers and that she prefers stronger tablets. She describes her headache as like a hammer pounding her head over and over again.

She blames her headaches from the stress and anxiety she was getting from home caring for her four very young children. But still, it wasn't really enough reason to have migraine headaches and there is no sign of any childhood problems that can trigger this. The doctor advised her to take it easy on the painkillers that might have some “rebound effect.”

Mr. Cooper, on the other hand, had a history of migraines since he was a teenager. At 42, he was still taking medications as he was sensitive to light and sound.

A migraine headache can be defined as a type of primary headache that some people get it repeatedly over time. It is closely associated with disorders of the digestive system, the liver, and the vision. It usually occurs when a person is under mental tension. Profiling people who usually get migraines shows that a person who is likely sensitive, methodical, intelligent, and a perfectionist is more prone to headaches. It is usually when they are in very stressful situations or so overworked.

Not many people realize it, but caffeine is also a culprit in triggering migraine attacks — and in imitating them. Withdrawal headache is the hallmark symptom in caffeine's diagnostic profile, and the rebound cycle — headache, caffeine, relief, headache — can masquerade as chronic migraine. If you are a heavy coffee drinker with recurring headaches, caffeine deserves a hard look: taper gradually (never cold turkey with migraines), and replace the ritual with a caffeine-free cup like Coffig so the habit has somewhere to land.

CAUSES OF MIGRAINE

• Stress is the number one source of tension headaches and can trigger a migraine. It can cause the muscles in the neck and head to tense up, therefore, constricting blood flow to the brain.
• Certain foods like cheese, chocolates, sardines and dried meats. And fruits like pineapples, raspberries, and avocados.
• Smoke or exposure to smoke
• Skipping meals
• Allergic reaction
• Alcohol

Another sign that you will be having a migraine is when you experience what it seems like an “aura” like visions or like seeing stars or zigzag lines.

MIGRAINE REMEDIES

Your doctor can diagnose you properly and will take a detailed history to make sure your headaches don’t pertain to sinus inflammation or a more serious one like a brain tumor. At times, a CT scan is helpful and EEG may also be required.

If taking drugs is not to your liking, another alternative is “Feverfew” which is a popular herb specifically for migraines. Studies show that herbs are good for treating migraines. You can also consider drinking lots of orange juice or water therapy as water is a good cleansing system and adds vitality.

A hot bath will go a long way in relieving migraine headaches and so does walking in a very relaxing environment with fresh cool air. There is no specific cure for migraine headaches but you can prevent them from happening.