7 lesser-known symptoms of a migraine attack

7 lesser-known symptoms of a migraine attack

Migraines are pounding headaches that can turn an ordinary day into a torturous ordeal. While most people associate migraines with severe head pain, some lesser-known signs and symptoms often go unnoticed. Shedding light on these symptoms can help create better support and empathy for those with the condition. This post explores the hidden warning signs of a migraine attack to help patients take the measures necessary to prevent an episode.

Aura
Many migraine sufferers experience an “aura” before the headache hits. This visual or sensory disturbance can manifest as flashing lights, zigzag lines, or even tingling sensations. The aura can serve as a warning sign, offering a brief window to prepare for the impending headache. However, not all patients experience this phenomenon.

Sensory sensitivity
Besides throbbing pain, those with migraines often struggle with heightened sensory sensitivity. Phonophobia (the fear of loud sounds) and photophobia (the aversion to light) are common symptoms accompanying migraines. Bright lights and loud noises can intensify the discomfort, sometimes to excruciating levels, making these sensitivities significant signs to watch for.

Brain fog
After the pain subsides, many patients experience what’s known as the “migraine hangover.” This cognitive impairment can last for hours or even days, affecting memory, concentration, and overall cognitive function. It’s a lesser-known but substantial consequence of migraines that can disrupt daily life, long after the headache has passed.

Neck pain
While migraines are primarily associated with head pain, neck pain is a possible symptom. Many sufferers experience neck pain as a precursor or accompanying sign. Tension in the neck muscles can trigger or exacerbate migraines. Recognizing this connection can provide valuable insights into managing and preventing migraines.

Digestive distress
Nausea and vomiting may not seem directly related to migraines, but they are common symptoms that often accompany the headache. These gastrointestinal issues can further exacerbate the misery of an episode. For some, nausea and vomiting may even occur without a severe headache, making them lesser-known but crucial signs to watch for.

Facial pain and pressure
The trigeminal nerve, responsible for sensation in the face and head, plays a significant role in migraines. Some experience facial pain and pressure during an attack, often concentrated around the eyes, temples, or jaw. These symptoms can be misattributed to other causes, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment.

Mood swings
Migraines don’t just affect the body; they can take a toll on one’s emotional well-being. Mood swings, irritability, and even feelings of depression are lesser-known but common symptoms associated with migraines. Understanding this emotional aspect is essential for both migraine patients and their support networks.

Awareness is the first step toward finding effective ways to manage and alleviate the signs of migraines and enhance the quality of life for millions of individuals with the condition.

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Coping with urges that can trigger a relapse post treatment

Addictions when left untreated can turn into crippling conditions. One can be addicted to smoking, binge drinking, or even shopping. Once addicted, one willfully submits to urges, despite having satisfied them before. However, addictions can be managed and to a great extent treated to full recovery. But, the post-recovery phase is crucial where both the mind and body are put to test and can trigger a relapse. Continue reading to know more about the most common triggers for addictions and how to deal with them.Stress Stress is commonly the root cause of many problems and addictions, both physical and psychological. One can become an addict as a way to manage the stress that may stem from strained relationships or priorities. The best way to avoid a relapse during recovery is to make lifestyle changes that don’t trigger a return to addictions amidst a stressful situation. One can practice mindfulness, engage in relaxation techniques, manage one’s time to avoid stressful situations, and imbibe healthy eating habits and exercise in their daily routine. EmotionsThere is an umpteen number of triggers that invoke a positive or negative emotional response. However, the stress associated with dealing with emotions daily can trigger urges without one even realizing. Often, one turns to a glass of alcohol or relies on prescription medications to put the mind at ease. It is not a permanent solution and prolonged use of these substances can cause more harm in the long run. One must learn and explore productive ways of controlling emotions better to avoid a relapse during recovery. For example, writing and maintaining a journal that contains one’s feelings and thoughts can act as a healthy outlet. Similarly, there are other healthy ways to channel one’s energy and manage emotional responses.Positive conditioningPeople who have addictions such as smoking or drinking may often find themselves in situations where a lit cigarette or a glass of wine can trigger a relapse. This is understandable considering these substances were the primary source of comfort and relaxation. However, with positive reinforcement and reconditioning one can train the mind and curb such urges. Relaxation doesn’t always mean techniques like yoga or meditation, it can also be pursuing your hobby. Counseling for group gatheringsBirthdays, parties, New Year’s events, and any celebration in general call for alcohol consumption and smoking. At times, these could be the very addictions one is recovering from, and in a social gathering, such temptations can be strong. However, a recovering addict should refrain from indulging in any of these as even a taste can turn into a relapse. For instance, a recovering alcoholic must avoid having a single drink as that could put him/her on a slippery slope to relapse. Here, one-on-one counseling can help prepare the mind to resist the urge. It is never healthy for a recovering addict to simply avoid socializing fearing a relapse.

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6 major causes of sudden onset of narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a multifactorial neurological disorder that affects the brain's ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles. While it typically develops gradually over time, there are cases where individuals experience a sudden onset of narcolepsy. This abrupt emergence of symptoms can be distressing and disruptive to one's daily life. Knowing the complex mechanisms behind this enigmatic condition and the possible causes of its sudden onset is important for taking proper preventive measures. Symptoms of narcolepsy Here are a few symptoms of narcolepsy: Excessive daytime sleepiness: Individuals with narcolepsy experience overwhelming drowsiness during the day, leading to sudden and uncontrollable episodes of falling asleep, even in inappropriate situations. Cataplexy: Cataplexy is a sudden loss of muscle tone triggered by strong emotions like laughter, anger, or excitement. It can range from mild weakness to complete paralysis and often accompanies narcolepsy. Sleep paralysis: During sleep paralysis, a person temporarily cannot move or speak while falling asleep or waking up. This can be a frightening experience and is often linked to vivid hallucinations. Hypnagogic hallucinations: Hallucinations may occur during the transition between wakefulness and sleep and can be vivid, frightening, or bizarre. Causes of sudden onset of narcolepsy Here are the common causes of sudden onset of narcolepsy: Autoimmune response: One of the leading theories behind the sudden onset of narcolepsy involves an autoimmune response. In some cases, the body's immune system mistakenly targets and destroys specific brain cells that produce orexin (also known as hypocretin), a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating wakefulness. The sudden loss of these cells can lead to narcoleptic symptoms. Genetic factors: Genetics also plays a significant role in narcolepsy. Certain gene variants are associated with an increased risk of developing the disorder. While narcolepsy is not directly inherited, the presence of these genes can make individuals more susceptible to environmental triggers that may lead to sudden narcolepsy onset. Viral infections: Some research suggests that some viral or bacterial infections may trigger narcolepsy in susceptible individuals and cause strep throat. It is believed that certain infections may trigger an autoimmune response that damages orexin-producing cells. Environmental factors: Environmental factors can also contribute to the sudden onset of narcolepsy. High psychological stress levels, disrupted sleep patterns, and significant life changes may exacerbate or trigger narcoleptic symptoms in genetically predisposed individuals. Brain trauma: Head injuries or trauma to the brain can potentially lead to the sudden emergence of narcoleptic symptoms. The exact mechanisms by which brain injuries might induce narcolepsy are not fully understood but may involve damage to the hypothalamus, which plays a crucial role in sleep regulation. Hormonal changes: Some hormonal changes, such as those associated with puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, may influence narcolepsy onset. Hormones can affect sleep patterns and the immune system, potentially contributing to the disorder's development. While the sudden onset of narcolepsy can be perplexing and challenging to predict, understanding the potential causes can help individuals and healthcare professionals manage the condition more effectively. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve the quality of life for those with narcolepsy, whether it develops suddenly or gradually.

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4 tips that can help you pick the right investment advisor

4 tips that can help you pick the right investment advisor

An investment advisor can be a game-changer. A capable advisor can help solve most of your financial issues and give you the best investment advice so that you can turn market situations to your favor. But, finding the right investment advisor is not easy. Here are a few things you need to keep in mind while looking for the best investment advisor. Know what type of service you need First, you need to decide what kind of financial assistance you need. Do you need help picking investments? Or are you seeking advice on real estate, retirement, or insurance needs? Asking yourself these questions will help determine the type of investment advisor you are looking for. Nowadays, many people use a robo-advisor, which is as competent as a human investment advisor. A robo-advisor is great for investment management and other basic investments. But if you want substantial transformation in your money-situation, a human advisor is the viable option. Choose a fee-only advisor If you’ve decided to pick a human advisor, the next step is to choose the type of advisor: commission-based, fee-based, or fee-only. If you’re planning something big financially, you must pick a fee-only advisor. Such advisors work for and get paid by other clients like you, so they always act in their clients’ best interest.
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With pension plans becoming more and more obsolete, retirement-focused investments have come to the fore in the past few years. Besides helping you fund your future, these valuable assets also provide incredible gains, and in some cases, constant income till the end of life. Since investing for retirement—and planning it—can prove to be challenging, we have put together a list of tips that may be helpful in the process. Assess your options Multiple investment vehicles are ideal for long-term gains and can return a sizable amount by the time you retire. Mutual funds, stocks, bonds, exchange-traded funds, cash investments, annuities, and dividend reinvestment plans (DRIPs) are also good sources of high returns, although they depend on investor characteristics and risk aptitude. Saving money in certain tax-advantaged accounts such as 401(k), individual retirement accounts (IRA), and brokerage accounts is also an option. Start early and young No one is ever too young to invest. It’s a healthy habit that can earn serious money in the long term, with even the smallest of investments capable of making a difference a few years down the line. Starting early gives your money time to grow and lets you accumulate more compound interest over a period of time.
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