1. Just a Bad Headache
Many people think that migraines are simply bad headaches. This isn't the case, because a variety of unique symptoms distinguish a true migraine from a merely irritating headache. Auras, which often accompany migraines, lead to visual disturbances that include flashes of light, wavy lines, distortion of objects and blind spots. Even if you don't suffer from an aura, you may suffer from the other migraine symptoms, such as nausea, poor concentration, fatigue, pain that gets worse with movement and sensitivity to light.
2. It's All About Women
While migraines are three times more common in women, they also occur in men. Men who are under the misconception that migraines only affect women may attempt to self medicate for long periods prior to seeking help. Another factor impeding treatment of male migraines is misdiagnosis by doctors. Some doctors continue to dismiss male headaches as passing irritations, instead of true migraines. If you're a male, with severe headaches, get help from your doctor.
3. Migraines Headaches Aren't Too Serious
Migraine headaches are serious and shouldn't be taken lightly. Research suggests that migraines sufferers may be more likely to suffer from other conditions, such as stroke and seizure. Female migraine sufferers who also take birth control pills may be even more likely to suffer stroke. Some research indicates that men with migraine headaches may be a greater risk for suffering from cardiovascular disease. Even if you don't suffer from one of these serious conditions, migraine headaches can be truly disabling, causing missed work and lost productivity.
4. Your Doctor Will Know a Migraine
While most doctors know about migraine headaches, misdiagnosis still occurs. Part of the problem is that migraine symptoms vary from one person to another. While many migraines are one-sided, others affect both sides of the head as well as the neck, eyes, cheeks and shoulders. Differential diagnosis is also difficult since migraine headaches closely resemble other types of headaches, such as sinus headaches or tension headaches. Finally, some migraine sufferers report that doctors attribute migraine symptoms to stress or depression, instead of establishing a correct diagnosis. This may be because migraine sufferers, who've struggled with disabling symptoms, are often stressed and depressed from missed work and loss of a normal lifestyle. The truth is that the stress and depression are secondary to the headache.
5. There's No Migraine Treatment
Too many people think that they must suffer through their migraines. Medications fall into two categories including preventative and pain relieving. Basic pain relieving medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or aspirin. More powerful pain relievers include triptans, ergots and opiates. Several drugs are used as a preventative to reduce occurrences and symptoms, including antidepressants, anti-seizure drugs, cyproheptadine and Botox injections.
