Stress, depression, sleep disorders, and irritable bowel syndrome can lead to mild or persistent headaches.
Migraines can be mild or severe, lasting for a month, a few hours, or for many hours at a time. Common accompanying symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Several conditions listed below can lead to migraines lasting for several months.
Depression, anxiety
People with mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorder are more prone to migraines. Conversely, migraine sufferers are more likely to experience depression and anxiety. Stress-reducing exercises, medication, or psychological therapies to manage depression and anxiety can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.
Sleep disorders
A 2018 study by the Sleep Assessment Center at Elliot Hospital (USA), published in the Journal of Headaches, showed that sleep disorders are linked to migraines. Snoring, obstructive sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and circadian rhythm disorders can trigger and worsen chronic pain.
Migraine headaches are a condition that causes discomfort. (Image: Freepik)
Irritable bowel syndrome
Common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) include cramping pain, bloating, and diarrhea. According to a 2017 study by the China Medical University Hospital, IBS can cause gastrointestinal dysfunction leading to abdominal discomfort and chronic migraines.
Women are at a higher risk of developing this syndrome than men. Patients should avoid foods that can irritate the intestines, such as alcohol, coffee, and caffeinated beverages. They should also limit dairy products, high-fat and sugary foods, artificial sweeteners, nuts, and insoluble fiber.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a disorder affecting the processing and transmission of pain signals from the brain to the muscles. The condition can cause symptoms such as migraines. Patients also have a higher risk of irritable bowel syndrome, insomnia, and mental stress. Women with fibromyalgia are more prone to chronic headaches than men.
Sinusitis
Sinus infections can cause headaches. Common symptoms include deep, persistent pain in the cheekbones, forehead, and bridge of the nose. Sinus pain is often accompanied by a runny nose, ear fullness, fever, and headache.
If left untreated, migraines can lead to dangerous complications such as seizures, stroke, impaired brain function, and vision loss. Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, taking prescribed medication, reducing stress, and exercising regularly can help improve symptoms.
Mai Cat (According to Everyday Heal, WebMD )
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