If you have ever experienced throbbing headaches accompanied by sensitivity to light and sound, or perhaps nausea and vomiting, you might be familiar with the disruptive nature of migraines.
Migraines are neurological disorders marked by recurrent moderate to severe headaches, suggests the Headache Classification Committee of the International Headache Society. They can be classified into several types, including migraine without aura, migraine with aura, and other specific types based on associated symptoms and triggers.
What are Episodic syndromes?
Episodic syndromes are conditions marked by recurring episodes of distinct symptoms that often coincide with migraines. These syndromes may share underlying mechanisms with migraines or occur due to overlapping neurological sensitivities.
Episodic syndromes that co-occur with migraines and strategies to manage them:
Recurrent gastrointestinal disturbances:
Episodes of abdominal pain, discomfort, nausea, and vomiting during migraine attacks are common manifestations of recurrent gastrointestinal disturbances. These symptoms can significantly impact the quality of life during migraine episodes.
How to manage: To manage recurrent gastrointestinal disturbances associated with migraines, addressing triggers such as stress and dietary factors is essential. Avoiding known triggers and adopting a balanced diet can help reduce the frequency and severity of these symptoms. Additionally, anti-nausea medications prescribed by a doctor can provide relief during acute episodes.
Benign paroxysmal vertigo (BPV):
Benign paroxysmal vertigo (BPV) is marked by sudden episodes of vertigo or dizziness, which often coincide with migraines. These episodes can be disorienting and may affect balance and daily activities.
How to manage: BPV management involves vestibular rehabilitation therapy, which focuses on exercises to improve balance and reduce vertigo symptoms. Lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding sudden head movements and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, can also help manage BPV triggers. In some cases, medications prescribed by a doctor may be necessary to fight symptoms during severe episodes.
Benign paroxysmal torticollis (BPT):
Benign paroxysmal torticollis (BPT) involves recurrent episodes of involuntary head tilting to one side, typically occurring during or around migraine episodes. This condition can cause discomfort and affect posture and mobility.
How to manage: Managing BPT includes physiotherapy to strengthen neck muscles and improve range of motion. Ergonomic adjustments in daily activities, such as maintaining proper posture and avoiding prolonged positions that strain the neck, are beneficial. Occasionally, muscle relaxants prescribed by a doctor may be used to reduce muscle spasms and episodes of torticollis.
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