Home - Health - Migraine – Triggers And Home Remedies

Migraine – Triggers and Home Remedies

Migraine – Triggers and Home Remedies

A migraine attack can result from various factors, including stress, weather changes, hormonal changes, and even certain foods and smells. The trigger can vary from person to person, and there isn’t any universal cause. The best way to determine one’s trigger is to work with an experienced doctor who treats chronic migraines. This post discusses the common foods and smells that can cause migraines and home remedies to combat the same.

Foods that may trigger migraines
Studies suggest that foods may cause migraines only when combined with other triggers. Nevertheless, patients should be cautious about including the following in their meals:

Highly caffeinated beverages
According to experts, high caffeine intake can trigger migraine attacks, so patients should avoid or limit beverages like energy drinks, soft drinks, tea, and coffee. However, since sudden caffeine withdrawal can also cause headaches, one should reduce their intake gradually.

Chocolate
Chocolate is considered the second most prevalent migraine trigger, affecting around 22 percent of patients. Beta-phenylethylamine and caffeine are two ingredients in chocolate that might cause the problem.

Foods with MSG
MSG, or monosodium glutamate, is a sodium salt of glutamic acid naturally present in the body. It’s also commonly used as a food additive in instant noodles, soups, fast food, and processed meat. MSG is known to cause severe migraine episodes in around 15 percent of patients.

Aged cheese
Aged cheese has tyramine, which can also trigger headaches. Tyramine is a substance formed as a result of the aging process. The longer the cheese ages, the higher the tyramine content. Some cheeses with high tyramine include Parmesan, blue cheese, and feta.

Fermented and pickled foods
Fermented or pickled foods also have a high degree of tyramine. A few popular options to avoid are kimchi, pickles, pickled okra, kombucha, and pickled jalapenos.

Frozen foods
Frozen drinks, slushies, and ice cream can lead to a severe migraine attack. The risk is higher if one overeats cold foods or eats them after exercising.

Salty foods
Salt can not only trigger headaches but also increase blood pressure and the risk of other health complications. Salted nuts, pizza, and fries are a few foods to avoid. Processed and canned foods are equally harmful as they usually use salt as a preservative.

Odors that can trigger migraines
Like foods, several odors and smells can be problematic for people with this condition. Examples are gasoline, car exhaust, cleaning products, paint thinners, perfumes, and pesticides. Some research studies indicate that 25 to 50 percent of migraine sufferers report excessive odor sensitivity during an episode. In addition, up to 50 percent say that strong odors trigger an acute migraine attack.

It’s important to note that the odors which trigger these headaches can vary from person to person. And one might not experience symptoms because of the same odor or smell every time. Smells typically induce an episode if exposed for over 15 minutes or when in an enclosed space.

Home remedies for migraines
Besides visiting a healthcare expert who treats chronic migraine, individuals can try easy home remedies to relieve their symptoms. Some popular examples include:

Massage
Migraines are usually caused because of low serotonin levels in the brain. A massage can increase serotonin and thus help ease the symptoms. Patients can use peppermint essential oil to massage the temples and forehead in circular motions with the index and middle fingers.

Acupressure
Acupressure involves applying pressure onto specific body parts to stimulate them and ease the pain. The best acupressure point for headaches is the LI-4 point: the space between the index finger and the base of the left thumb. Directing firm, but not painful, circular pressure on this point with the right hand for five minutes can ease headaches. One may visit a professional to administer acupressure or do it by themselves.

Yoga
While exercise can get the heart pumping and avoid flare-ups, it can also be a trigger. Yoga, with its slower movements, is generally considered a safe alternative. Studies suggest that yoga can reduce migraine episodes and make them less severe.

Hydration
Dehydration is a common trigger in around 33 percent of patients. To avoid dehydration, one must drink sufficient water during the day, especially after a workout and during summer.

Stress management
Stress can trigger the symptoms in seven out of ten people with the condition. It might even create a cycle where pain aggravates with stress, causing another episode. Individuals can lower stress levels through meditation, journaling, listening to music, warm baths, and indulging in breathing techniques.

Cities that are migraine hotspots
Certain places in the country are known to have more migraine cases due to their weather, lifestyle, or food choices. Here’s a list of five such cities:

Cincinnati, Ohio
People from Cincinnati typically eat foods known to trigger migraines. For instance, Cincinnati-style chili is a unique cuisine with a tomato base topped with cheese and onions. Onions, dairy, and tomatoes are all ingredients that trigger a migraine. The city’s residents also love pizza, a food rich in dairy and salt with a wheat crust.

Madison, Wisconsin
Because of its lifestyle, Madison is among the worst cities for people prone to this condition. The city’s residents indulge in foods with tannins, which could be responsible for the flare-ups. Moreover, the location is known to have high pollution levels and abrupt weather changes.

Little Rock-North Little Rock, Arkansas
People in North Little Rock and Little Rock are exposed to fluctuations in barometric pressure. The region also has muggy, hot weather during the summer months, which can be a trigger.

Knoxville, Tennessee
Knoxville has multiple environmental woes that could be a misery for migraine sufferers, but the most concerning factor is its barometric pressure changes. The pressure swings trigger storms that can be problematic for people with this health condition.

St. Louis, Missouri
People in St. Louis eat foods known to increase the risk of migraines, such as wheat sandwiches and ravioli. These contain wheat and are stuffed with marinara made from tomatoes. Unsurprisingly, migraine cases are high in the city.

Previous Read

Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

Next Read

Understanding COPD and Managing it Using Food

COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, is a lung disease that can make breathing difficult. It is often caused by long-term exposure to damaging particles or gases, such as tobacco, air pollution, dust, and other irritants. The condition can weaken the body's immune system, making it more vulnerable to sickness and disease. Fortunately, certain foods can help boost your immunity and also increase overall lung health. Read on to know about COPD and foods to have for it. Symptoms of COPD The primary symptoms of COPD are persistent coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and a feeling of tightness in the chest. The symptoms can vary from person to person, but the most common signs are difficulty breathing, increased mucus production, frequent flare-ups or exacerbations, fatigue, and changes in sputum color. Diagnosing COPD COPD is a condition that affects the airways and can make it difficult for you to breathe. It is crucial to get a diagnosis as soon as possible so you can start treatment and begin to manage your symptoms. The diagnosis process may include a physical exam, a review of your health history, pulmonary function tests, and imaging tests. During a physical exam, your doctor will listen to your lungs using a stethoscope and may use a peak flow meter to measure your breathing. They may also perform other tests, such as measuring your oxygen levels or looking at your chest X-ray to help diagnose COPD. Pulmonary function tests are tests done to measure how well your lungs are working. These tests measure how much air you can breathe in and out and how quickly you can move air in and out of your lungs. Imaging tests, such as a CT scan or an MRI, can help assess the amount of damage to your lungs. Other tests that may diagnose COPD include a blood test or an allergy test to rule out other causes of shortness of breath. After diagnosis, your doctor may prescribe supplements or lifestyle changes to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Types of immunity boosting foods for COPD Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD, is a common long-term lung disease that can be made worse by environmental factors, including pollution. Those with COPD are more likely to have a weakened immune system, making it essential to boost immunity levels through proper nutrition. Fortunately, many foods can help strengthen the immune system and fight infection. Carbohydrate-rich food Whole-grain bread is an excellent source of carbohydrates and is packed with nutrients like fiber, iron, and B vitamins. It also contains a variety of antioxidants that can help protect against damage caused by free radicals. Eating whole-grain bread regularly will help to improve blood sugar levels and decrease the risk of developing COPD. Pasta is another excellent source of carbohydrates that can help boost immunity. It contains essential minerals and vitamins such as iron, magnesium, and vitamin B12. Eating pasta will provide the body with plenty of energy and can also help to reduce inflammation in the lungs. Fresh fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals that can help to boost the immune system. They are also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against damage caused by free radicals. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables regularly will ensure the body has enough of these essential nutrients for good health. Protein-rich foods Protein is an essential macronutrient for individuals with COPD. It plays a role in muscle strength and the maintenance of the respiratory system. Eating protein-rich food twice a day can help maintain strong respiratory muscles, allowing for better airflow. Milk is an excellent source of protein and other essential nutrients that can benefit COPD sufferers. It is high in calcium, which is necessary for healthy bones, as well as Vitamin B12 and other beneficial vitamins and minerals for your health. Milk also contains whey protein, which can help improve lung function and reduce inflammation in the lungs. Cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium, which are essential for healthy bones. It also contains vitamins A and B12, which help the immune system function properly. It also contains conjugated linoleic acid and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. Nuts are an excellent source of protein and help keep the respiratory system functioning correctly. They are high in magnesium, which helps regulate oxygen levels in the blood, and zinc, which helps reduce inflammation in the lungs. Dried beans and peas are a great source of protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients. They are high in antioxidants, which help fight inflammation, and are important for proper respiratory function. Eating dried beans and peas regularly can help maintain a healthy respiratory system. Unsaturated fat-rich foods Unsaturated fats can be found in many plant-based sources, including canola, safflower, and corn oils. They have been linked to numerous health benefits, including improved heart health, a decreased risk of stroke, and decreased inflammation throughout the body. In addition to these benefits, unsaturated fats also play an essential role in boosting immunity for those with COPD. Unsaturated fats are believed to reduce oxidative stress within the body and reduce the impact of inflammatory cytokines. This means they can help reduce the risk of infection and make it easier to manage COPD symptoms. Fiber-rich foods Fiber is an integral part of a healthy food regimen, especially for people with COPD. Eating 20 to 30 grams of fiber daily can help boost your immune system and improve your respiratory health. A variety of foods are rich in fiber, including fruits and vegetables, whole grains such as bread and pasta, nuts, and seeds. Fruits and vegetables are also the best sources of fiber. Apples, oranges, bananas, strawberries, kale, spinach, broccoli, carrots, and sweet potatoes are all excellent sources of dietary fiber. One can also try adding almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and pumpkin seeds to their meals or snacks to get an extra boost of fiber. Potassium-rich foods Potassium is an essential mineral for overall health, and eating potassium-rich foods can help boost your immune system if you have COPD. Some of the best potassium-rich foods include avocados, tomatoes, bananas, and oranges. These foods are a great source of vitamin C, which is essential for fighting infections and boosting immunity. Potassium also helps keep your body's electrolytes in balance, which can help prevent muscle fatigue and keep your body functioning properly. In addition, avocados and tomatoes contain carotenoids and other antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent COPD flare-ups. Furthermore, bananas are high in magnesium and potassium, which can help reduce stress levels and give your body an extra boost of energy. Oranges are also high in vitamin C, making them ideal for boosting immunity and fighting infection. 

Trending Articles

01

Everything you need to know about chronic fatigue syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition that causes extreme tiredness and fatigue that does not go away even after resting. The causes of the condition are yet to be known. However, there are some theories indicate several factors which include: Viral infection Stress Or several factors in unison Once the symptoms are identified and the condition is diagnosed, treatment can be taken to get relief from symptoms. Understanding all aspects of the condition, including its stages, diagnosis, symptoms, and prevention can help in managing it effectively. Different stages and phases of chronic fatigue syndrome The patients of chronic fatigue syndrome undergo four phases of the condition. Their response towards the treatment can also vary greatly depending on the phase that they are going through. These phases are: Phase I: Crisis or trauma Phase II: Stabilization Phase III: Resolution Phase IV: Integration During all the phases, a chronic fatigue syndrome patient undergoes some physical, psychological, and social changes that are easily noticeable. Diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome No one test can diagnose a patient with chronic fatigue syndrome. This is because the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome resemble several other health conditions. Therefore, a lot of patience is required for the diagnosis of the condition.
02

What you should know about depression

Depression is a mental health disorder that results in bouts of continuous sadness. A clinical mood disorder can lead to physical and emotional suffering, and can also change one’s behavior. Frustration, anger outbursts, lack of energy, sleep issues, anxiety, disinterest in eating, concentration issues, and suicidal thoughts are also common symptoms of this disease. Depending on its severity, the illness can challenge one to lead a normal life, too. Diagnosis There are many different methods a medical professional can use to determine if one is affected by depression. Psychiatric evaluation is the most common way to determine if one is suffering from the disease. The mental health doctor will interview the affected person to understand their thought process, mood, and other symptoms. Some doctors may compare symptoms with the ones listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This makes it easier for them to understand the condition. A physical exam is also performed to determine if any physical health issue is caused due to this mental condition. Stages of depression Depending on the level of sadness, the stages of depression can be divided into five stages: Stage 1 Even though the signs of mental disease are hard to miss, for most people, it starts with denial.
03

Important things you should know about diabetes

The pancreas is an important organ in our body that produces insulin. It is required to help the glucose pass to our cells from the blood. That is how energy is created, which is the fuel we require to function. When the pancreas is unable to produce insulin, the glucose level in one’s blood increases. This can result in diabetes, which can lead to organ damage. Types of diabetes There are mainly three kinds of this disease. Type 1 diabetes It can be most commonly seen in children and adolescents. Having said that, it can occur at any age. The insulin production of one’s body decreases with this condition, and they require daily injections to control their glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes Around 90% of people who have diabetes suffer from this type. It is most commonly seen in adults and results in one’s body failing to properly use the insulin that is produced. It can be kept under control by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but one may also require medicine in the advanced stages. Gestational diabetes This can be seen during pregnancy if the glucose level in one’s blood increases. It can affect both the child and the mother.
04

Gout – Diagnosis, stages, and prevention

Gout or gouty arthritis is a form of arthritis that commonly occurs in the joint located at the base of one’s big toe. It can also be seen in other joints and results in swelling, sudden pain, and tenderness. It can happen to anyone and occur at any moment, even suddenly in the middle of the night. The good news is that it can be prevented and treated. Diagnosis of gout Multiple medical tests can be used to determine if one has this form of arthritis. Below is a list of the most common tests. Joint fluid test The doctor uses a needle to collect fluid from one’s joint and test the same under a microscope. If urate crystals are found in the fluid then they have the condition. Blood test For gout detection, the doctor may suggest a blood test. The amount of creatinine and uric acid present in one’s blood indicates if they have it or not. However, the result of the blood test may not always be conclusive. X-ray imaging If one has joint inflammation, the doctor can use X-ray imaging to determine if it is caused by any other reason or gouty arthritis. Ultrasound A musculoskeletal ultrasound test is used to determine if one has gout or any other form of arthritis.

Our Blogs

Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of ADHD

Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of ADHD

ADHD, short for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, affects children worldwide, and this also often carries on into their adulthood. Some of the different problems faced by kids suffering from ADHD include sustaining attention for a long time, impulsive behavior, and hyperactivity. There might be other problems associated with ADHD, like low self-esteem, low grades in school, and difficulty in keeping up with relationships. More often than not, symptoms of ADHD are seen to have decreased with age. However, there are cases wherein ADHD symptoms never subside. Levels of ADHD There are three different levels or stages at which ADHD can affect individuals. They are: Predominantly inattentive ADHD This level of ADHD may be related to missing details very easily and getting distracted often. Also, one may get bored very quickly. One has difficulty in processing new information, and there is also the tendency to not listen properly. One might not be able to follow directions very clearly and also lose things like pencils or papers. It has been observed that girls are more likely to get inattentive ADHD than boys. Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive ADHD This is mostly associated with symptoms like restlessness and difficulty with sitting still. Kids suffering from hyperactive-impulsive ADHD have a tendency to talk consistently, and it’s less likely that they will engage in quiet activities.
Read More
Understanding skin aging

Understanding skin aging

Changes in the skin are one of the biggest signs that the body is aging. But how the aging of skin takes place depends on a lot of factors such as our diet, lifestyle habits, stress levels, and the like. For example, if you smoke regularly, it can lead to the production of free radicals, which damage healthy skin cells and cause wrinkles. So, let’s dig a little deeper into skin aging so that you can diagnose it and prevent it for as long as possible. Stages of skin aging As you age, you will start noticing changes in your skin. These changes take place in phases or stages. Learning about these phases can allow you to take better care of your skin and stay away from everything that can prove to be harmful to it. So, these stages of skin aging are: Stage I – Between 25 and 35 years This is the time when your skin will look extremely voluminous to you. But, this is also the time when the early signs of aging will start to appear. Therefore, it is important that you follow a good skincare regime. Some wrinkles can start appearing on the forehead. Lines can also start to appear on the face when you make normal expressions such as laughing, smiling, or frowning.
Read More
Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of addiction

Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of addiction

There are three terms that one can relate to addiction – reward, motivation, and memory. Addiction is when the body craves a behavior or substance in an obsessive pursuit of a reward. The person will have little concern about the consequences of the particular behavior or substance. Things to note in case of addiction Some of the attributes that one can relate with addiction include an inability to stay away from the substance, lack of self-control, an outrageous desire for the substance or behavior, ignorance towards the problems that the behavior might be causing, and a growing tendency to ignore the emotional response. Addictions have been known to interfere with daily life and there are also cases of relapse and remission. The complications of addiction can be physical, emotional, as well as financial. Stages of addiction There are five main stages of addiction. These include: Experimentation Every addiction starts with experimentation and during this stage, one cannot understand that this is the beginning of an addiction. One cannot be sure that this will turn into something serious, and hence no necessary steps are taken at this stage. A simple way to find out how this will turn into addiction is understanding the reason for experimenting and how often a person experiments with new substances.
Read More
Top debt settlement companies in the USA

Top debt settlement companies in the USA

Incurring debt is really common in this age and era as everything has become extremely expensive, from college education to owing a house. If you ever feel that your debt is too large and you may not be able to pay it in time, then you can seek the help of a debt settlement company. These companies essentially communicate with your creditor to try and lower your debt and the rest of it is typically forgiven. Given below is a list of the top 9 debt settlement companies in the USA. National Debt Relief If you have USD 7,500 or more in debt, then the National Debt Relief can be a great choice for you. It is one of the most prominent debt settlement companies in the country. The initial consultation is offered for free, but you will have to pay 15-25% of the settled debt amount as a fee. Freedom Debt Relief This a dedicated company that offers debt relief services to people who have at minimum USD 7,500 to USD 10,000 in debt. 15-25% of the settle debt amount is charged as fee once a settlement is negotiated, and in return, they offer the possibility of settling the debt within 24-48 months.
Read More
Allergies – Stages and prevention

Allergies – Stages and prevention

The immune system of our bodies is constantly fighting against viruses and bacteria to keep us healthy. However, in certain cases, the immune system may also end up fighting some substances that are not always harmful. When this happens, you experience an allergic reaction. The allergens are the substances that cause the reactions. With a little carefulness, you can prevent the allergies effectively. The allergic development Even though an allergic reaction can vary from person to person, it generally progresses in the same five stages: Stage 1 The allergen enters your body through food, air, or touch, and contact the cells in your body. Stage 2 Your immune system creates immunoglobulin E, which is a type of antibody. Stage 3 This antibody enters your gastrointestinal tract or respiratory tract but does not do anything. Stage 4 The next time when you are exposed to the same allergen, the immunoglobulin E treats it as a harmful substance and reacts with it. Stage 5 24 hours after the reaction, the immune system cells move towards the areas that were affected to release certain chemicals to treat it. How to diagnose allergies Your allergies can be diagnosed by a doctor. Before visiting him or her, you must recognize the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Read More
Anemia – Symptoms, types, and prevention

Anemia – Symptoms, types, and prevention

Anemia is a kind of medical condition in which an adequate amount of oxygen fails to reach one’s body’s tissues owing to the deficiency of red blood cells in their body. When one suffers from this condition, their body feels weak and exhausted all the time. Symptoms There are different kinds of anemia and each of them has a cause of its own. It can have short-term or long-term effects and the disease can be mild or severe in nature. If one sees any symptoms suggesting that point toward anemia, it is essential to consult a doctor immediately. The signs vary from person to person and depend on the cause or their origin. Sometimes, the chronic disease causes anemia and the doctor ends up diagnosing the disease but the fact that one is suffering from anemia does not show up in the test. Sometimes, there are mild symptoms and then, with time the symptoms become more prominent indicating that the disease has penetrated one’s body more deeply. Some of the commonly found symptoms include breathing difficulties, fatigue, pale skin, chest pain, headache, dizziness, hands and feet turning cold, irregular heartbeat, and pain in the chest . Types of anemia Iron deficiency anemia This is the most common kind of anemia, which occurs due to iron deficiency.
Read More