How to Avoid Getting a Migraine

One of the most irritating and painful experiences is an extreme headache also known as a migraine.

Migraines can cause pain in your head, neck and shoulders or cause you to feel nauseous and lightheaded. Migraines are common, as about 12% of adults in the United States suffer from migraines, but that does not mean that they cannot be avoided. Avoiding migraines can be tricky, especially for seniors, but we have a few tips that may help prevent these horrible headaches from occurring.

Your diet can affect your mental health, your mood and your overall physical health. Keeping your diet healthy and avoiding processed foods can help you avoid migraines. Additionally, sugar can sometimes cause a ‘sugar rush’ which then can result in a crash, which is often accompanied by a migraine. Caffeine also has a negative effect on your body, as it can cause migraines when you experience withdrawals or too much caffeine. Keeping your diet balanced can allow your body to get the nutrients it wants and craves to maintain a healthy body and mind.

Stay active! Getting outside and enjoying some fresh air and exercise can help decrease the chances you will experience a migraine. Your body is strong and capable of achieving great things, despite your age. Take 20 minutes to go for a walk and enjoy the fresh air of your neighborhood. It is of the utmost importance to not push yourself too hard, as strenuous exercise can cause headaches and migraines to occur.

Make sure that you have a sleep schedule that you honor. Lack of sleep can cause migraines, along with poor food and drink choices that can also cause headaches or migraines. It is advisable to set a sleep pattern where you get at least eight hours of sleep each night and you vow to stick with said pattern. Going to bed at the same time every night and getting the correct amount of sleep will allow your body to rest and recharge for the day ahead.

Learn how to deal with stress in a way that works for you. Anxiety, worry and chaos can trigger a migraine. Each person has a different way they deal and cope with stress, including but not limited to exercise, meditation, aromatherapy or talking to a therapist. Find what works for you and be sure to surrender fully to the process. When you are feeling anxious, stressed or on edge, be sure to have a plan in place to soothe your mind and soul and avoid a migraine.

We hope that these tips will help you avoid migraines, as we know that they can be painful and debilitating. Migraines do not have to be an everyday occurrence and with the right tips and techniques, you can be migraine free!

CINTAA Elder care shares useful information regarding healthcare on weekly basis. The post is only for information purpose only. Please check with your health care professional before using this information. To keep yourself updated with many other health tips, stay with us. We provide certified caregivers for seniors at home. If you need any help regarding eldercare, please feel free to call us today at 561-963-1915.