Migraine headaches can cause debilitating pain that can last anywhere from a few hours to several days. There are many different variables that can trigger migraines in people, and while there is no cure, MayoClinic.com reports that some medications may help alleviate symptoms. Some migraines may also respond to self-help therapies like yoga, meditation and relaxation techniques, according to Science Daily. Additionally, exercise can help certain types of migraine headaches.
Tension and Stress
Tension and stress are the leading cause of headaches, according to Live Science. And when stress is experienced in childhood, due to such incidences as abuse or parental divorce, you are twice as likely to experience headaches in adulthood. The reason, according to Live Science, is that stress permanently changes brain chemicals in the part of the brain that affects the adrenal glands, and high levels of stress hormones are linked to migraines. The American Headache Society reports that tension and stress can be reduced with a regular exercise program. Work out three to five times a week in order to relieve tension and to keep your body healthy.
Menstrual Migraines
The National Headache Foundation reports that women experience migraine headaches three times more frequently than men, mostly due to hormonal fluctuations due to menstruation. Most hormone-related headaches in both men and women are caused by "the way that serotonin is metabolized in the body", according to the National Headache Foundation, which adds that the interaction of serotonin with estrogen makes women more vulnerable to headaches, especially migraines. Exercise may help relieve several PMS symptoms, especially fatigue, bloating and depression, but it may not help with menstrual migraines. The National Headache Foundation reports that these types of migraines are best treated with medications.
Irregular Sleep
Disrupted or irregular sleep can lead to migraine headaches in some people. Better Health Research reports that sleep deprivation has been linked to increased stress levels, which can trigger these headaches. MayoClinic.com reports that regular exercise and physical activity can help you to fall and stay asleep.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Migraine Headache
- Science Daily: Migraines: Options To Prevent And Treat The Pounding Pain
- American Headache Society: Trigger Avoidance Information
- National Headache Foundation: Menstrual Migraine
- Livescience: What a Headache! Why Modern Life Hurts So Much
- Mayo Clinic: Exercise: 7 benefits of regular physical activity
