Hormonal migraineis a type of migraine that is caused by fluctuations in the female sex hormones, particularly estrogen. It has been observed that hormonal imbalances usually occur during the premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum period and menopause. Intake of oral contraceptives pills or hormone replacement therapy can also lead to the development of these migraines.

A close link has been noticed between estrogen and serotonin, a chemical in the human body that is associated with migraines. Hormonal imbalances lead to a decline in the production of estrogen which leads to a reduction in the serotonin levels. Hormonal migraines are the outcome of these fluctuations and can be quite distressing for women. Different women respond differently to these hormonal imbalances and can suffer from moderate to severe intensity migraine headaches. The headache usually begins on one side of the head and is accompanied by nausea, vomiting and increased sensitivity to light, sound and smell. It is very important to find an appropriate hormonal migraine treatment as this disorder can interfere with your normal run of life.

Hormonal Migraine treatment:

In order to get treated, it is essential for you to consult a doctor and take the prescribed medicines such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antidepressants or tryptans. Medicines such as naproxen sodium, acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, ralfen, ketorolac etc. can be taken to treat this condition. However, if you are pregnant or lactating, you must not take any aspirin formulas. Acetaminophen is considered to be safe during pregnancy, but you must notify your doctor before taking any medicines. Frova, belonging to the category of tryptans can also be used to treat hormonal migraines.

Preventive hormonal migraine treatments:

The best thing to do in case of a migraine attack is to lie down in a darkened room and relax.

Avoid sitting in a brightly lit room as it might trigger a full blast attack.

Avoid the intake of foods such as chocolates, nuts, processed, fermented or marinated foods and foods containing monosodium glutamate as they tend to trigger migraine attacks.

Avoid staying hungry or delaying your meals.

Stress and tension should be eliminated in order to avoid the occurrence of migraines.

Regular exercise is essential for combating migraines. Going for a 15 minute stroll or yoga exercises can help.

Biofeedbak helps reduce the frequency of migraine attacks and is helpful in dealing with the symptoms.

Take out time for recreation and other activities in order to combat stress.

Taking herbal infusions made of chamomile, peppermint, feverfew and cayenne can help provide relief. It is however, important for you to discuss te various benefits and side effects along with the recommended doses with a doctor before resorting to herbal remedies, especially during pregnancy and lactation.