For many women, menstrual headaches and migraines are a common and unwelcome part of their monthly cycle. These debilitating headaches can disrupt daily life and make it difficult to perform even the simplest of tasks. However, there are ways to manage menstrual headaches and migraines, and even prevent them from occurring in the first place. Let’s explore some shocking facts about menstrual headaches and migraines, as well as some tips and treatment options for managing and preventing them!
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Causes of Menstrual Headaches and Migraines
Just like what your boyfriends and husbands have always mansplained to you, “You need to drink more water, you need to eat a full meal.”. Are these annoying words actually true?
As a matter of fact, menstrual headaches and migraines are typically caused by hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle. Estrogen levels rise and fall throughout the cycle, and this can trigger headaches and migraines in some women. Also, changes in serotonin levels, which also fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, can also contribute to these painful headaches.
Tips for Managing Menstrual Headaches and Migraines
- Keep a headache diary: From when do the headaches occur, what causes them, and how long they last. These are the lists of things for you to keep track of. This information can then be used to develop a plan for managing and preventing future headaches.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help prevent dehydration, which can trigger headaches. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day, and avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
- Practice stress-reducing techniques: Stress can trigger headaches and migraines, so it is important to find ways to manage stress. This can include practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
- Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep can trigger headaches and migraines, so it is important to make sure you are getting enough sleep each night. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night, and try to establish a regular sleep routine.
Treatment Options for Menstrual Headaches and Migraines
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help relieve menstrual headaches and migraines. However, it is not advisable to take these without any appropriate prescription as it can hide your symptoms of other possible risks.
- Prescription medications: If over-the-counter pain relievers are not effective, your doctor may prescribe a medication specifically designed to treat migraines, such as triptans.
- Hormonal treatments: Hormonal birth control can help regulate estrogen levels and prevent menstrual headaches and migraines. Additionally, hormone replacement therapy may be recommended for women who are experiencing menopause-related headaches.
It is undeniable that menstrual headaches and migraines can be a frustrating and painful part of the menstrual cycle for many women. However, there are steps that can be taken to manage and prevent these headaches, including keeping a headache diary, staying hydrated, practicing stress-reducing techniques, getting enough sleep, and utilizing various treatment options. If you are experiencing menstrual headaches or migraines, be sure to go to your doctor instead of complaining to men!
