It is thought that 6 million people in the UK suffer from migraines, which means that 190,000 people a day are having migraines.

What causes Migraines?

No one is very sure what actually causes migraines, although it is thought that they can be brought on by stress, dehydration, lacking food, eating trigger foods and drinks, strong perfumes, loud noises, hormonal imbalances, tiredness and bright lights.

 You can find a full list of known potential migraine triggers by clicking here

Migraines can be exacerbated by stress, so managing stress is key to reducing migraines.

Think about what causes you the most stress in your life? Is it not being able to find things on a morning? Or not having time to prepare and eat regular, healthy meals? Or feeling tired and dehydrated by not being able to drink enough liquid throught the day? Or is it something at work or at home that gets your blood boiling? Is there something quick, easy and affordable that you can do about this? 

If you can find a way to remove some of the stress, you might find your migraines melt away (or at least don’t happen quite as often!) 

This might include getting everything you need ready the night before so you have a stress-free morning, or doing an online food shop for the week so you have meals and healthy snacks to hand. It could mean taking a water bottle with you wherever you go so you don’t get dehydrated. Or putting dinner in the slow cooker before you go to work so you have something quick and easy for dinner when you get back. 

Self-Care : You matter

Create a tool kit of ways to look after yourself, allotting time each day to do things that you love doing to replenish yourself. You cannot keep giving without replenishing your own personal stock. 

So pick something you enjoy and do it as often as you can. If necessary, put it in the diary as an appointment and guard it with your life! Time for self-care is as important as everything else you have in your diary or on your to-do list! 

• Use a relaxation app like Headspace or Calm or listen to Yoga Nidra or guided meditations.
• Keep in a loose routine, going to bed and getting up at similar times each day even at weekends
• Eating good quality, nutrient-rich food is also essential as is eating regular meals
• Take regular light exercise preferably in the fresh air. Walking is good, as is running, horse riding and golf.
• Meet up with friends regularly and have a good support network in place
• Have a regular massage or reflexology treatment and book your next one into the diary so it’s there for you to look forward to. Having a course of massages or reflexology treatments can help migraines, especially as they help to relax you, to release the tension in your muscles and improve sleep patterns.