Did you know that more than half of people who suffer from migraines have never been diagnosed? Many people who actually suffer from migraines may feel they just have a “bad” headache. But it’s important to recognize that a migraine is much more than a headache – and there are effective treatments that your doctor can suggest or prescribe to help manage the symptoms.

Your doctor will start to evaluate your headache based on how you describe your symptoms. That’s why it’s important to know how to speak with your doctor about the pain you’re experiencing.

By considering the answers to the following questions ahead of time, you’ll be much better prepared to discuss your diagnosis:

• Have you had at least five headaches like this before?

• Does your headache last between four and 72 hours?

• Do your headaches have at least two of the following characteristics:

- One sided head pain
- Throbbing or pulsating pain
- Pain that is moderate or severely intense
- Pain made worse by exertion like climbing stairs

• Do you experience at least one of the following during your headaches:

- Nausea or vomiting?
- Sensitivity to light and/or sound?

Once your doctor has completed the assessment, and if you were diagnosed with migraine, then you and your physician should discuss treatments option.

Treatment options
Growing evidence supports the idea that people with migraine should work with their doctor to ensure they are using the treatment that is most appropriate to their needs. Older approaches to migraine management start patients on aspirin or other treatments that may not be sufficient or adequate for many. One of the most effective treatments for severe migraines is a class of medications called triptans. Triptans are available in different formulations including some that can be conveniently taken whenever a migraine attack strikes.

While there is no cure for migraines, relief is available! Speak with your doctor or visit www.migraineinfo.cafor more information.

Tips for a headache-free back to school season

With the new school year underway and fall routines slowly becoming established, it’s important to keep stress and other headache triggers under control. This is especially true for the nearly 3.4 million Canadians who suffer from migraines. Not only do migraines cause debilitating disruptions to daily activities, they also account for some 5.4 million lost workdays each year.

Keep these tips in mind to ease the transition from a carefree summer to the busy fall season:

1. Watch the foods you eat – summer picnics and backyard barbecues may have been great for indulging, but if you’re prone to migraines, watch out for these classic triggers as you head back into your busy schedule: red wine, aged cheese, chocolate, caffeine, and spicy cured meats.

2. Let the routines roll – stress, altered sleep patterns and too little or too much sleep can also be migraine triggers. Even if it’s tempting to sleep in on the weekends, it’s much better to try and stick to the same wake-up time each day of the week. Bedtime routines are not just for kids either – begin your evening wind-down early with a nice bath, a good book or a relaxing activity that lets your brain know that sleep is around the corner.

3. Weather patterns – Many people find that changes in weather patterns are triggers for their migraines – for example a drop in barometric pressure. If you find this to be true for you, be aware of the forecast and take extra care to manage your symptoms when they appear.

4. See your doctor – Don’t suffer in silence – there are many effective treatments, including triptans, that can provide significant relief. Keep a diary of your symptoms and speak with your doctor to ensure you receive the treatment that is appropriate to your specific needs.

If you keep your stress levels and triggers under control, your fall season can be enjoyable and headache-free.

For more information, speak with your doctor or visit www.migraineinfo.ca. - News Canada