Migraine Signs And Treatment by Allison Morgan (of Migra Cap International)

Migraine is more than just a bad headache. With over six million sufferers in the UK alone, migraines have a substantial impact on both personal and working life. Figures show that 1 in 10 people suffer with migraine of which nearly 70% are women.

In business migraines account for approximately 57 million working days of absenteeism, costing the economy almost £32 billion when added to medical expenses.

A migraine attack can last from anything of several hours duration to several days and stress can be a major factor in sufferers. Symptoms can include:

Classic Migraine (with aura)

1. Visual disturbances include blind spots, flashing lights and zig-zag patterns, or confusion, inability to concentrate, problems with co-ordination, or tingling, pins and needles or numbness on the affected side. These symptoms, known as aura are most often identified with Migraine but in fact only about 10-15% of sufferers experience them.

Common Migraine (without aura)

1. Intense throbbing headache, often on one side of the head only

2. Nausea and/or vomiting and/or diarrhoea

3. Increased sensitivity to light, sounds or smells

Migraine triggers include:

1. Environmental Factors – Pollution

2. Dietary Factors - Chocolate, Dairy Products, Alcohol, Excess Caffeine, Lack of Food

3. Hormonal Factors – Menstruation, High Blood Pressure, Toothache or Sinus Problems

4. Emotional Factors – Tension, Stress, Anxiety

5. Physical Factors – Travel, Exertion, Lack of Sleep

Although there is as yet no miracle cure for migraine it is possible to bring the condition under control. There are a wide range oftreatments available which can be very effective. Many people treat their migraine with simple pain killers purchased from the chemist or prescribed by their GP. Many sufferers feel dependent on medication and appreciate the availability of a non-drug alternative; Cold and dark therapy, herbal remedies, homeopathy, acupuncture, reflexology, aromatherapy, and various techniques which encourage relaxation have been helpful for some people.

The Migra-Cap, derived from cold and dark therapy, consists of a flexible, breathable lycra cap with cold therapy gel sachets sewn inside to target the areas of the head affected by the pain (forehead, temples, sides and back of head, sides and back of neck). The cap also covers the eyes, excluding the area from the light and keeping it cool, which is an essential requirement for the sufferer. The cap was tested by 32 members of the Migraine Action Association UK results show an 81% success rate.