Doctors and researchers continue to learn and discover more information about migraines, a painful, often debilitating condition. However, there are many wide-spread myths that can be harmful to patients and alter their search for treatment options. No fear- we are here to help clear up some of the most common misconceptions surrounding migraines. Keep reading for more info.
“Migraine is just a headache.”
While it is true that a migraine is a type of headache, the difference in pain makes them completely different. The pain someone can experience is more severe and debilitating when experiencing a migraine. Migraine is a neurological condition with functional and occasionally structural changes that occur in the brain. Some symptoms of migraines can be nausea, sensitivity to light, vertigo, and much more.
“I caused my migraine.”
While some people believe they can prevent their migraines, the sole reason one may experience migraines is due to genetics. No one is at fault when a migraine episode attacks. Some examples of triggers can be stress, anxiety and depression. It’s very challenging trying to manage all the factors that can produce a migraine, and many triggers are hard to steer clear of.
“Eating a specific diet can cure my migraine.”
Individuals who experience migraines regularly try to eliminate any potential food triggers from their diet but finding the exact food trigger can be extensive work. Unfortunately, there is no specific diet that will work for everyone because everybody is different. The only thing you can do is listen to your body and try to understand your personal food triggers so you can avoid any potential pain.
“There is nothing that can treat my migraine.”
Some days can make you feel helpless. You believe your only option is to just get through the pain. While there is no cure for migraines yet- clinical trials may be an option. Currently enrolling migraine studies are evaluating investigational migraine medications for individuals experiencing several migraines a month.
If you are interested in learning more about current and upcoming studies at Charlottesville Medical Research, call (434) 817-2442, or click here.
Resources:
https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/migraine-myths/
