It is known that the migraines during pregnancy aren’t like the regular headaches. Usually they are more severe and there is throbbing pain that affects both sides.
These could last for hours or even days. In some cases the migraines can also be accompanied by some other symptoms, like blurred vision, numbness or flashes of light.
Information about pregnancy migraines
You may think that having such a headache is enough on its own, but the sad news is that it could also trigger nausea, fatigue, dizziness and women could get more sensitive to sound and light. Some of the effects of migraines are similar to the symptoms of morning fatigue, but they are worse.
The causes of migraines
When thinking about migraines and pregnancy you should think about the pregnancy hormones (again!). Still in this case they aren’t the only ones to blame. According to the specialists, it is possible that the changes in the nervous pathways, blood flow of the brain and the imbalance of the brain chemicals also have a word to say.
The common triggers of the migraines during pregnancy involve stress, glaring lights, fatigue, loud noises, tobacco smoke, too much heat or cold, and also different kinds of foods. You should be careful about chocolate, nitrates in processed meats or artificial sweeteners.
What to know?
Women who have been suffering from migraines before their pregnancy could get pregnancy migraines more often than other women but in some cases they have fewer migraines than they had before. On the other hand it is possible for women to experience these headaches for the first time during their pregnancy.
According to the studies that have been conducted regarding migraines and pregnancy, those women who suffer from migraines are more prone to preeclampsia, hypertension and other vascular disorders. This is why you may want to tell your doctor if you have migraines from time to time.
What to do about the pain?
If you had migraines before you got pregnancy migraines, most probably you have been using strong painkillers to make it better. Sadly you won’t be able to take these pills during your pregnancy. However you could ask your doctor about some safer pills that you could take until delivery.
It is known regarding migraines during pregnancy that acetaminophen and caffeine could be helpful with the problem. If these don’t help you, you could also look for other methods. Nonetheless make sure that you don’t have more than 200 mg of caffeine per day.
Alternative and complementary medicine
When it comes to migraines and pregnancy, some of the studies show that the alternative solutions could really work, such as biofeedback, acupuncture, meditation, massage or yoga. Another advantage is that these methods can help you relax and so you can avoid stress that is a trigger of migraine.
Migraine journal
If you have migraines during pregnancy it is a good idea to have a migraine journal. Note what you eat, where you are and what you do before the migraine hits. This way you will be able to find out what triggers migraines in your case and you can make sure in the future to avoid the triggers.
Avoiding the triggers
In case of the pregnancy migraines, the best treatment is to avoid them. If you know what is causing them, you will think twice about having a hot dog or you will ask your friend to ditch the cigarette. In the same time it is important to have enough sleep.
Now you know a lot more about migraines and pregnancy and you know what measures to take in order to avoid the pain.
