Migraines are more than just headaches; they are complex neurological conditions that can significantly impact daily life. Characterized by intense, recurring pain and often accompanied by symptoms like nausea, light sensitivity, and fatigue, migraines come in various forms, each with its unique challenges. While occasional migraines may be managed with over-the-counter solutions from your local drug store in Powell, TN, chronic or severe migraines often require a comprehensive approach involving lifestyle adjustments and medical care. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of migraines, common triggers, and practical strategies to help you navigate life with migraines, from managing light sensitivity to addressing dietary and environmental factors.

What is a Migraine?

A migraine is a neurological condition characterized by intense, recurring headaches that often come with additional symptoms. These headaches typically involve a throbbing or pulsing pain, usually on one side of the head. Migraines can last for several hours to several days and vary in intensity. For common migraines, you may be able to find relief from over-the-counter medication from your local drug store in Powell, TN, but for more severe types, you will need to consult a doctor. Aside from the headache pain, the common symptoms of migraine include nausea and/or vomiting, light sensitivity, visual disturbances, and fatigue.

There are several different types of migraine, including the following:

  • Migraine with Aura - Characterized by sensory disturbances before the headache
  • Migraine without Aura - This is the most common type of migraine and does not include sensory disturbance
  • Chronic Migraine - These are migraines that persist 15 or more days every month
  • Menstrual Migraine - Triggered by hormonal changes during a woman’s menstrual cycle
  • Hemiplegic Migraine - This is a rare type of migraine that often mimics the symptoms of a stroke and can cause temporary paralysis on one side of the body
  • Retinal Migraine - Affecting one eye, these migraines can result in temporary vision loss or sight disruption
  • Ophthalmic Migraine - Characterized by severe pain in the eye region
  • Vestibular Migraine - Headache pain accompanied by dizziness, vertigo, and a loss of balance
  • Abdominal Migraine - Most common in children aged 5 to 9 years, pain is in the abdomen rather than the head and causes nausea and vomiting.

Dealing With Light Sensitivity

One of the most common triggers for many types of migraine is light sensitivity, also known as photophobia. Both natural and artificial lights can trigger migraine pain or make existing pain worse. Many migraine sufferers find relief in wearing sunglasses indoors and outdoors to block some of the harsh light. You can pick up a good pair of sunglasses at your local drug store in Powell, TN. Blue light is one of the most triggering types of artificial light, commonly emitted from televisions, laptops, and mobile devices. You can purchase filters for these screens if you use them for extended periods, which can help filter out the blue light, or alternatively, you can turn down the brightness on these screens. Chronic migraine sufferers who have photophobia may also find it helpful to swap lightbulbs for green-tinted ones, as this is the only color that has not been found to increase pain.

Stress Management

Stress is also a significant trigger for migraine for 70% of sufferers. It is unlikely you can eliminate all forms of stress from your life, so the key is learning how to manage it effectively. The best course of action is to devise a plan that you can put into place when stress rises and you feel the telltale signs that a migraine is on the horizon. This might include something as simple as removing yourself from the situation until you can get your emotions back under control, or you could go for a walk, do a short workout, or practice some deep breathing exercises. You may also find it useful to talk to your local drug store in Powell, TN, about pharmaceutical grade CBD oil, which can be useful in managing stress and anxiety.

Eliminate Strong Odors

Did you know that strong odors can also be a migraine trigger? Things like pungent smelling foods or heavy cologne can quickly trigger a severe migraine attack. Once you know which scents trigger you, work to eliminate them from your home environment and talk to friends and family about not using them in your presence. However, it can be challenging to eliminate such smells out in public or in the workplace! Coffee beans have been known to neutralize odors, so some sufferers like to carry a small pouch of coffee beans with them to sniff when triggered by other odors. A little peppermint or menthol balm under your nose can also help to block strong smells. Pick some up at your local drug store in Powell, TN, to keep in your pocket.

Look For Food Triggers

Your diet could be one of the things triggering your migraines. Keep a food log of everything you eat and look for patterns in your migraines following certain meals. Try eliminating these meals to see if it lessens your migraine frequency. It is important to make sure you maintain a balanced diet rich in all of the important nutrients, so you should consult a registered dietician for advice when eliminating your trigger foods. Common trigger foods include alcohol, chocolate, MSG, nitrates, and fermented/pickled foods.

Have Medication Ready

If you are usually experiencing a ‘garden variety’ migraine without aura, you can keep some over the counter medication on hand. Pick up a packet at your local drug store in Powell, TN, so you will be able to take some immediately at the first sign of your next migraine. However, if you have more severe or chronic migraines, you will likely need prescription medication from your doctor. This might include both drugs to stop or lessen the migraine once it starts and preventative drugs to reduce the frequency and severity of your migraine attacks. Your local drug store in Powell, TN, can help you manage your prescriptions so that you are always prepared. Just ask about our VIP pill boxes.

Living with migraines can be challenging, but understanding your triggers and having a personalized management plan can make a world of difference. Whether it’s addressing stress, minimizing exposure to strong odors, or exploring dietary changes, there are steps you can take to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Over-the-counter medications from your local drug store in Powell, TN, may suffice for milder migraines but don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for more severe or chronic cases. Remember, with the right tools and support, managing migraines is possible, allowing you to focus on living your life to the fullest.

Your Hometown Pharmacy Since 1966

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Vaughn Pharmacy is a local, family-owned pharmacy serving the community in Powell, TN. Specializing in providing personalized and attentive prescription programs to our patients, we believe you are more than just a number – you’re part of our family!

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(865) 947-1581