A 2018 Study Placed the Prevalence of Migraines in the USA

A 2018 study placed the prevalence of migraines in the USA alone at around 15.1 percent. The majority is higher among women than men, affecting 1 in every 5 women.

For the average mum, triggers for a migraine episode vary greatly. From hormonal changes to dietary factors and emotional triggers, there is plenty that can induce migraines. Tiredness and lack of sleep because you have so much to do as a mum, physical overexertion can also bring on that migraine. Environmental factors like loud noises, that stuffy room you haven’t gotten around to cleaning, or the flickering light you are yet to change, can also have the same effect.

More than a Headache

A migraine is not your typical headache lasting a little longer. The experience is entirely different, and the pain is worse. The pain is usually so bad that it will interfere with your ability to perform regular everyday activities, including your mom duties. During a migraine episode, you may find yourself more sensitive to sound and light. Other symptoms include nausea, accompanied by diarrhea and other gastrointestinal problems.

Taking Care of Yourself

While there is presently no known cure for migraines, you can effectively manage the severity and frequency of your migraines in the following ways.

1. Natural Remedies

Lying down when you feel the aura coming on helps a lot. You can also go into a quiet room in the house and turn off the lights to help with the increased sensitivity to light and sound. A cold pack will also provide you some relief.

There has also been some research into the effectiveness of some supplements, including herbal extracts and riboflavin. Taking these supplements can give you much-needed relief. You may want to speak to your doctor before you start taking these supplements.

2. Medication

Over-the-counter pain medication can help relieve the pain of a migraine episode.  You can easily get some Advil or Tylenol for your migraines.

Your doctor may also prescribe some medications to help with the migraine. Tritans, for example, is believed to work by reversing the changes in the brain that cause a migraine. Your doctor may also recommend ditans, which provide relief for migraines, by interacting with specific receptors on your blood vessels and sensory nerves. If you experience nausea and vomiting during your migraine episodes, the doctor may prescribe antiemetics to manage both.

Many fall into the trap of overusing medication and become overly dependent on it, especially painkillers. Use only as much as has been indicated by your doctor as effective and safe. It is also worth noting that overusing the medication can lead to a rebound headache.

3. Medical Marijuana for Migraines

Recent studies have shown that cannabis reduces the severity of migraines by almost 50 percent. Individuals suffering from migraines who have used both cannabis and prescription migraine medication have said that they would go with the experience from the former any day.

 If your migraine episodes are marked with nausea and vomiting, you stand to benefit greatly from marijuana. Exploring medical cannabis for nausea and the painkiller effects that come with it makes it a great choice for any mum suffering from migraines.

The good news is that medical cannabis does more than just providing short-term relief. Research has shown that prolonged medical marijuana use effectively reduces migraine frequency.

Choose What Works for You

If you are not too keen on taking medication, then you can always explore the natural remedies highlighted, including alternative therapies such as acupuncture. Drugs, both over-the-counter and prescription, are also highly effective, as is medical cannabis. Find what works best for you, so you can keep your migraines in check and go back to being the super mom you are.