Menstrual headaches fall in the category of hormone headaches and are caused by a fluctuation in the female hormonal levels during the menstrual cycle. Estrogen, the female sex hormone tends to become unstable during menstruation resulting in abrupt hormonal changes leading to the development of these headaches. Women taking oral contraceptives are most susceptible to developing menstrual headaches which may occur few days in advance of the menstrual cycle and fade away once the cycle has ended.

Symptoms of Menstrual headaches:

This type of headache is unilateral in nature in which the pain is felt on one side of the head.

The pain can range from moderate to debilitating depending from woman to woman.

Menstrual headache pain is accompanied by intense throbbing, nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light, sound and smell.

The pain can last from a few hours to few days.

The degree of pain and duration can vary from one episode to another.

Different women respond differently to this type of headaches. For some women, the intensity of pain is moderate while for others it can be debilitating. Some women are also likely to develop menstrual migraine which begins during the pre-menstrual period and can be very agonizing. Menstrual headaches are often confused with migraines as the symptoms of both ailments are quite similar.

Treatment of Menstrual headaches:

Menstrual headaches can be treated by takingpainkillers such as NSAIDs like relafen, nalfon and naproxen sodium.

Drugs containing an ergotamine agent can also be administered to patients suffering from these headaches.

Relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation also help relieve stress and are a good way of dealing with these headaches.

Women should take a balanced diet and avoid staying hungry when their menstruation dates are near.

Limiting the intake of caffeine and chocolates can also help prevent the occurrence of headaches.

Exercising on a regular basis helps relieve stress, builds resistance and strengthens the body. Various stretching exercises and deep breathing techniques can help prevent menstrual headaches.

If you still experience excruciating pain then you must talk to your doctor and discuss the various alternatives for treatment.