Migraines vs Headaches

Some patients confuse migraines with headaches, but migraines can be much more serious and debilitating than a simple headache. People who have a bad headache can usually still function and do the things they need to do and like to do. If you have a migraine, functioning at a high level (or any level required by your family, friends or colleagues) is not really an option. The pain can be so intense that waiting for it all to be over is all one can hope for. James Zheng (Chiropractor) is experienced in treating people suffering from migraines in and around Chatswood, NSW.

The four phases of a migraine

Prodrome (a few hours to 10 days)

• Irritability
• Depression
• Yawning
• Increased need to urinate
• Food cravings
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Concentration issues
• Fatigue and muscle stiffness
• Difficulty in sleeping, speaking and reading
• Nausea

Aura (5–60 minutes)

• Temporary loss of sight
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Visual disturbances

Headache (4–72 hours)

• Throbbing, drilling, burning pain
• Vomiting
• Nasal congestion
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Neck pain and stiffness

Postdrome (24–48 hours)

• Fatigue
• Depression
• Euphoric mood
• Issues with concentration
• Lack of comprehension

What triggers migraines?

Migraines can be triggered by various things which differ from patient to patient. What brings on migraines in one patient can even help soothe the migraine in another. Common triggers include:

• Stress
• An unhealthy diet or overeating
• Temperature — feeling the heat or cold
• Lights — fluorescent, bright and overly white, or flashing lights
• High-pitched sounds or repetitive sounds
• Not enough sleep
• Poor posture
• Un-optimal spine alignment

Don’t spend any more time than you already have dealing with migraines. If you live in or around Chatswood, book an appointment with James Zheng. Improving your quality of life starts now.