MIGRAINES: IT'S NOT IN YOUR HEAD

Migraine headaches affect 28 million Americans; 75 percent (or roughly 21 million) are women.  Migraine symptoms occur in various combinations and include pain, extreme sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and vomiting.

Common triggers include:

• Stress and tension
• Missed meals and diet
• Fatigue and physical exertion
• Sleep extremes (too much or too little)
• Birth control pills and hormonal changes
• Smoking

Up to 25% of sufferers can associate their attacks with particular foods or food groups.

Several common dietary triggers include:

• Alcoholic beverages, particularly red wine and beer
• Chocolate
• Aged cheeses, sour cream and yogurt
• Certain food additives such as MSG
• Artificial sweeteners
• Nuts
• Caffeine

Migraine management:

• Identify and avoid your triggers.
• Talk to your doctor about medications and treatment options to prevent and treat attacks.
• Make healthy lifestyle changes:
  - Learn relaxation techniques and coping strategies to deal with stress
  - Improve diet and exercise regularly
  - Quit smoking
  - Practice good sleep habits

For more information visit www.excedrin.com.