Chronic migraines can have long-term health consequences that go far beyond the few hours or days that a single migraine headache lasts. Migraines are more severe than headaches, despite their prevalence. The pain is extreme, may throb, and is characterized by nausea, light or sound sensitivity, vomiting, or visual distortions known as “auras.” Migraines usually only attack one side of the brain.; however, they might affect both. Women are also more likely to be affected than men. If you suffer from migraines frequently, engage with your physician David N Peterson APRN, ND, to develop a plan to manage your pain and avoid these different medical issues.
Ways migraines are dangerous for your body
1. Bowel Malfunction.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and migraines are frequently linked. According to doctors, headaches and digestive issues are thought to be caused by the same alterations in the neurological system. People with IBS often experience diarrhea and constipation, and they may also feel nauseous or as if they have to go to the restroom all of the time.
2. You run the risk of getting even more headaches.
You may find yourself going for the medication cupboard regularly if you suffer from chronic migraines. However, if you use pain relievers more than twice or three times per week, you may experience rebound headaches. This happens when your prescription wears off faster each time you take it, and the pain returns greater than before.
3. It may lead to a stroke.
Strokes develop when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. Migraines increase your chances of having a stroke by twofold. The risk appears to be greatest if your migraines are preceded by an aura—visual abnormalities such as blinking lights or zig-zag patterns.
4. Disruption of your sleep pattern.
Migraine pain can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. Chronic migraines have also been linked to alterations in how your body transitions between stages of sleep, disrupting your sleep. A lack of sleep might exacerbate head pain.
5. Developing high blood pressure.
High blood pressure appears to be more common among migraine patients during pregnancy, and some research has connected hypertension to persistent migraines in adulthood. Abnormalities could cause both diseases in your autonomic nervous, which regulates spontaneous activities like blood pressure and heart rate.
When should you see a doctor?
Migraines are undetected and mistreated far too often. If you get migraines constantly, keep track of your episodes and how you cope with them. Visit your physician if you have had a headache history and the pattern has changed, or your headaches feel different. If either of the following signs and symptoms applies to you, see your doctor or go to the nearest hospital:
- An intense, sudden headache, similar to a thunderclap
- Headache with chills, muscle aches, forgetfulness, convulsions, double vision, numbness, or weakness in any region of the body may indicate a stroke.
- Experiencing headaches after a head injury.
- Coughing, exertion, straining, or a sudden movement might aggravate a persistent headache.
- Experiencing new headache pain after the age of 50.
Do you have a headache that bothers you? Schedule an appointment with PharmXhealthOne for assessment.
