Broward College Offers Tips for Living With and Managing Migraines

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (May 27, 2014) – Although there are nearly 30 million migraine suffers in the United States, the neurological disorder is still misunderstood, mistaken for a simple headache and often stigmatized. To not only educate the public, but also provide resources for patients and their families, Broward College Associate Dean of Nursing Catherine B. Johnson, Ph.D., is offering tips for living with and managing migraines.

According to the World Health Organization, migraine attacks can be disabling. Treatments exist, but just as there are different kinds of migraines, there are several forms of treatments. Some treatments prevent attacks while others make them less frequent, decrease the severity or stop symptoms once they have started. Medications used to combat migraines usually fall into two categories: pain-relieving/prescriptive and preventive.

There are other self-care measures that can help the pain of a migraine attack or help stop triggering them, including-

Migraine diary: Keep a diary after seeing your doctor so you can easily track your triggers and find a more effective and personalized treatments. Make sure to note when and how long a migraine lasts, as well as your meal choices throughout the day because certain foods or drinks can bring on a headache within 30 minutes.

Muscle relaxation exercises: Relaxation may help ease the pain of a migraine. Techniques may include progressive muscle relaxation, rhythmic breathing or yoga.

Adequate amounts of sleep: Irregular sleep cycles and insomnia can trigger migraines. It is best to maintain a proper sleeping schedule and wake up at the same time every day.

Rest and relaxation: If possible, rest in a dark quiet room when a headache starts. Place an ice pack wrapped in cloth on the back of your neck and apply gentle pressure to the painful areas on your scalp.

For more information, contact Catherine B. Johnson, Ph.D., at 954-201-6921 or cjohnso8@broward.edu.

-BC-