Dummy migraine is a type of migraine that causes debilitating pain on one side of the head and is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, increased sweating, dizziness and sensitivity to light, sound or smell. Almost 28 million Americans are in the grip of this annoying disorder that is known to interfere with daily life activities and schedule.

Trigger factors of Dummy migraine:

Intake of foods that contain monosodium glutamate, asparte, tyramine, processed foods, fermented and marinated foods, aged cheeses, chocolates and nuts.

Intake of alcohol or wine.

Smoking- both active and passive.

Work overload, stress, tension and depression.

Excess or lack of sleep.

Hunger or delayed meals.

Changes in weather, barometric pressure, altitude changes etc.

Exposure to string smells and perfumes.

Symptoms of dummy migraine:

• Excruciating pain on one side of the head
• Numbness on one side of the body
• Muscular weakness on one side
• Nausea and vomiting
• Vertigo
• Irritability and changes in mood.

Treatment for Dummy migraine:

This includes taking medicines such as aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen and naproxen sodium. Aspirin is usually combined with paracetamol and caffeine. Tryptans are also given to patients suffering from severe pain such as Zolmitriptan. Nasal sprays and antidepressants are also given to dummy migraine sufferers.

Preventive methods include lifestyle changes such as giving up smoking, avoiding the intake of alcohol and wine, regularizing the sleep pattern and trying relaxation techniques to alleviate stress. If you happen to be suffering from this condition, it is essential for you to do some regular exercises such as walking, cycling, jogging etc. in order to combat this painful disorder. Lying down in a dark room also helps relieve the symptoms. Alternative therapies such as spa therapy, aromatherapy, acupuncture and massage can be tried.

Certain herbs such as gingko biloba, cayenne, peppermint, rosemary, feverfew, chamomile and willow can be used as teas or capsules in controlled doses to ward off this disorder. Ice packs and cold compress can also be used on the pain points to help reduce the headache.