Migraines

Headaches affect a significant portion of the population, and they cannot always be classified as migraines. The most common types of headaches are tension-type or vasomotor headaches, which account for over 90% of all headaches. Migraine is defined as a severe and pulsating pain that usually affects only one side of the head. The duration of migraine attacks varies; they can last several hours or even several days.

Generally, most headaches are caused by muscle tension, most commonly of the neck and trapezius muscles. The cause of the migraine itself is most often attributed to the excessive dilation or constriction of blood vessels in the brain. Triggering factors responsible for migraine pain include:

• allergies,
• constipation,
• stress,
• both excessive and insufficient sleep,
• weather changes,
• bright light,
• large crowds, 
• fluctuations in blood sugar levels,
• toothaches,
• hormonal changes,
• consumption of certain foods.

Typical symptoms of a migraine, apart from severe pulsating pain in the temple or behind the ear, also include dizziness, vomiting, abdominal pain, and blurred vision.

Most of these problems can be prevented with regular physical exercise and relaxation (swimming, relaxation massages, a system of relaxation exercises...). The population most frequently resolves these conditions by taking analgesics, which may work in the short term, but unfortunately, in the long term, they disrupt the body's natural ability to suppress pain.

The Influence of Diet on the Onset and Course of Migraines

The quality of diet affects the onset of migraine states. Common triggers are foods containing the amino acid tyrosine, which mainly include:

• meat,
• canned fish,
• avocado,
• cabbage,
• bananas,
• beer,
• dairy products,
• hard cheeses,
• wine.

Dietary supplements can prevent initial symptoms and pain, but only classical analgesics are effective for suppressing fully developed migraines.

From a long-term perspective, it is important to monitor the ratio of calcium and magnesium in the diet, which regulate muscle tension. The influence of B-complex vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids is also frequently cited.

Preventatively, it is advisable to avoid consuming large amounts of alcohol and caffeine sources.