I received an email about Cefaly, the first device of its kind to receive FDA approval for the preventive treatment of migraines – and I saved it, thinking it might be something I’d share with you. I haven’t tried it, but I am a migraine sufferer. Had one the other day and, besides the day that was wasted as I suffered through hours of pain, nausea and inactivity, the following day was a waste too because I was so logy. I’ve been getting migraines since I was six. My dad suffered with them, as do my mom and husband and, yeah, my daughters get them too.
Cefaly was invented by a team of neurologists that include Dr. Pierre Rigaux who provides some tips on how you can prevent migraines during the upcoming holiday season. But first, here’s a little more info about Cefaly. It’s a high-tech headband that sends tiny electrical jolts to the trigeminal nerve to desensitize it to help stop a migraine before it starts and to reduce how often you get them. It’s a prescription-only device that, in clinical trials, proved to reduce the incidence of migraines and sufferers’ reliance on medications, including prescription meds, when used daily. Cefaly also produced no side effects in clinical trials. Click here for the link to their website for more information.
And, as promised, Dr. Rigaux’s tips on preventing migraines during the holiday season …
Get Some Zzz’s: Do your best to keep a regular sleep schedule as changing your routine can trigger a migraine. Intense physical exertion can often trigger a migraine too.
Avoid the Glare: Holiday lights are pretty and alluring but staring at them for too long can cause a migraine. Similarly, flickering lights can too. If you’re hosting a holiday bash, aim for steady lights; if you’re the guest, find a seat where the lights are a distance behind you.
Layer Up: Shifts in barometric pressure can really affect migraineurs. Dress in layers so you can control your body temperature by adding clothes when you feel chilly and removing layers when warm.
Mind Your Food: While turkey isn’t usually considered a migraine trigger, a “basting” turkey might bring on a migraine for its additives. Stuffing can also trigger a migraine. Be mindful of nuts, garlic, onions and sausage. And be very careful with sugar and processed foods, as a spike in these can often trigger a headache. Also, don’t purposefully skip meals to save calories for the holidays as fasting can be a main headache inducer.
Bring a Dish: If you’re extremely sensitive to migraine triggers and you’re a guest, bring a dish with something that’s safe for you to eat that others may also enjoy.
Drink Moderately: Alcohol, especially wine, and beverages high in caffeinate can trigger migraines.
And here’s one of my tips:
Stay hydrated: Dehydration is often a trigger for migraines. It is for me. I try to drink water, coconut water or herbal tea throughout the day but, if I can’t, at the first sign of a migraine, I drink water. That sometimes helps to prevent the headache from becoming worse. If it does, the only thing that helps me is sleep. However, I will talk to my health care provider about Cefaly. It could become my family’s best friend.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:
Need Stress Relief? You’ve Come to the Right Place.
Are You Addicted to Stress? Many Women Are …
10 Reasons To Get Out and Walk Right Now!
