Migraines are a neurological condition that makes the brain extra sensitive to triggers, that then cause an extreme and even debilitating pain. A salient feature of migraines is pain that is restricted to certain part of the head.
There are different forms of migraines, with different triggers and symptoms. For some people, it may be triggered by loud noise, for others, it might be some foods that do it.
For some women, migraines might also be triggered by periods. Just around when the periods start, there are hormonal changes in the body that can trigger migraines. While there is no migraine that is good, those associated with periods tend to be worse.
They not only last longer, but their symptoms are also less severe. These migraines are also notorious for being less responsive to treatment as well. Hence, women not only have to continuously visit their GP, but they are also a constant at their gynecologist doctor in Karachi for better management of their PMS symptoms.
Managing period-related migraines
All is not so bleak when it comes to managing your migraines. Even though the challenge is bigger, there are ways that you can manage the symptoms of period migraines. Some helpful tips include:
Track your cycle
Tracking your cycle is very important for better management of your PMS symptoms, including migraines. So, be diligent about noting when your symptoms start. Generally, migraines start before the periods and may continue during as well.
When you know approximately when the symptoms will set in, you can then take preemptive measures accordingly. During this time, you should also note what helps with the symptoms and what does not.
Keeping a careful log of your period symptoms will also help you have the data handy for discussion with your doctor as well.
Avoid your triggers
Alongside tracking your cycle, also make an effort to avoid your triggers. During the time when you are already at a higher risk for migraine, you can take extra precautions about avoiding triggers otherwise that can make your migraine worse.
Take steps to improve the symptoms
Even when the migraine starts, if you do not take care of yourself, your symptoms may become worse. So, make sure that you retreat to cool, quiet, and dark quarters when the symptoms start. Similarly, try hot and cold pack for improving the pain. Avoid screens, as they can make your symptoms worse.
Always be prepared
If you take medication in-time, the symptoms can be prevented from becoming severe. So, always have your pain medication in-hand.
Medication
There are broadly two types of medication for migraine; one is aimed at easing the pain and the other was a preventative measure. You can, with the help of your doctor, try both.
For painkillers, you might need to test a few different formulas to see which work best for you. However, be careful about the consumption of NSAIDS, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, as they can be hard on the stomach, leading to bleeding and wounds.
Another type of medication that might work include antidepressants like SSRIs, anti-seizure drugs, etc. You can work with your doctor in finding the combination that works best for your symptoms.
Birth control may be of help
Since the root cause for period-related migraines are the hormonal changes, some hormonal birth control methods like the pill, shots, vaginal ring, patch, etc., can be of help.
For women who do not have regular periods, the migraines might catch them off guard. As the hormonal birth control methods help in making the cycle regular, they allow women to take preventative measures in due time.
Moreover, some women may also choose to not have periods, that can potentially help with the migraine as well.
However, you should consult the best gynecologist in Rawalpindi before taking the pills. The estrogen only pills may not be suitable for those who have migraine aura, whilst the progesterone only might be effective. In any case, work with your doctor in managing the symptoms.
