Misinfo and Migraines: Separating Fact from Fiction
6 Misinformation about Migraines and Their Truth
Anyone who suffers from migraines or has suffered from migraines for a long time will surely understand the meaning of the following statement: Don’t tell migraine sufferers that they have to reduce stress in their lives to avoid these stressful attacks. You look fine and you don’t look sick at all.
In fact, such statements may be insulting to people with migraines, and they certainly do not boost their morale or take the disease away from them. Migraine is not a physical disease, even if it causes physical complications. Rather, it is a neurological disease that is not caused by the stress of life, and it is certainly not a simple headache like the headaches that many suffer from from time to time.
Migraine is a common disease that, in some severe cases, “hinders” the ability to live a normal life. It is one of the most serious disabilities that some people may face. Although the causes of this disease are still a matter of great doubt, the treatments available today have proven very effective in alleviating the burden that this health condition places on patients. Also, despite the increased awareness among members of society about what migraines are, a lot of misinformation remains spread about them.
Misinformation 1: Migraine is not a serious disease
Most migraines are not serious; However, it can be chronic and sometimes lead to poor quality of life if not treated appropriately. It’s also worth noting that not all migraines are equal in severity; There is a type of migraine called hemiplegic migraine, which tends to run in families, and is associated with neurological symptoms and aura symptoms that precede the migraine, and can lead to a stroke.
Misinformation 2: A migraine is just a headache
Migraine is a primary headache disorder and is more than just a headache, which is of course a symptom; There are some types of migraine that do not cause any headache, as migraine is defined clinically as a specific type of headache that a person feels more severely. It is usually accompanied by symptoms in addition to the pain one feels in the head, such as nausea, decreased ability to concentrate, and even discomfort with lights, etc.
Misinformation 3: Caffeine is one of the causes of migraines
Caffeine does not cause migraines, but it may be a trigger for some people. There is a complex relationship between coffee and migraines. Excessive caffeine intake can cause migraines. However, caffeine in general can help relieve headaches, including migraines. Some people find that drinking caffeine at the beginning of a headache reduces its severity and can help relieve some of the pain. But regular use of caffeine as a treatment is not recommended.
Misinformation 4: There are no medications that can help treat migraines
Today, many medications are available to help control migraines, including over-the-counter painkillers and others. It is always preferable to consult a doctor who will evaluate the condition and prescribe the appropriate medication accordingly.
Misinformation 5: Migraines cannot be diagnosed without an imaging examination
The diagnosis of migraine is based on clinical examination and does not require any imaging to confirm it. Imaging is used in cases of ambiguous symptoms or the presence of neurological symptoms or warning signs. This is when imaging is warranted to rule out other diseases.
Misinformation 6: Migraine medications cannot be used by pregnant women
Migraine medications are relatively safe during pregnancy, especially after the first three months of pregnancy. However, some preventive anti-seizure medications should be avoided because of their risks to the fetus. Before becoming pregnant, it is important for a woman to talk to her doctor about a migraine treatment plan, whether she is taking over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, or both. Of course, not all medications are safe during pregnancy, and some are completely prohibited; While other medications can be added again after the first three months of pregnancy.
Conclusion
Migraines are surrounded by a lot of confusion and misinformation that must be corrected, in order to treat their attacks appropriately and promptly. Migraine headaches should not be underestimated and treated with them and their patients as a simple pain that does not require concern. Migraines are a form of disability that threatens the quality of life and prevents patients suffering from them from doing any work, regardless of its size.
FAQs
- Can migraines be diagnosed without an imaging examination?
- Yes, most cases of migraine can be diagnosed by clinical examination without the need for x-rays.
- Are migraine medications safe during pregnancy?
- Migraine medications are relatively safe during pregnancy, especially after the first three months of pregnancy.
- Can caffeine cause migraines?
- Caffeine does not cause migraines, but it may be a trigger for some people.
- Are there any medications that can help treat migraines?
- Yes, many medications are available to help control migraines, including over-the-counter painkillers and others.