Migraine pain: Coping with chronic headaches gets complicated by other disorders

The National Headache Foundation recently conducted an online survey asking sufferers about their experiences with migraines coupled with other disorders. The survey found that 54 percent of people affected by migraines also suffer depression; 34 percent complain of anxiety disorder; 20 percent have chronic fatigue; and 17 percent are bothered by asthma.

Dr. A.B. Chaudhari, a neurologist at the Neurosciences Center of Southeast Missouri Hospital, said the increase of stress, anxiety and depression in our current life system have definitely brought an increase in the number of people complaining of migraines.

"There are so many new pressures which translate into migraines. The pace and stress of life are much greater now than in olden times," said Chaudhari. "A new pattern of life appears wonderful and glamorous, but it has created its own problems."

Dr. Robert Gardner, a neurologist at Saint Francis Medical Center, said a number of different triggers can instigate migraines in those susceptible to them. Some are out of a person's control, such as certain weather patterns or phases of the menstrual cycle. Other triggers can be identified and avoided. These include foods such as chocolate, fish, certain cheeses and monosodium glutamate.

"Environmentally, smoke, bright lights and certain smells can also play a part in triggering migraines," said Gardner. "Nausea and vomiting may accompany the attack, and the person may experience numbness, tingling, weakness or visual disturbance."

Chaudhari and Gardner say migraines can be the cause of other disorders. The National Headache Foundation recently published an article stating migraines have been clearly associated with an elevated risk for the first onset of depression. Furthermore, the presence of both migraine and depression in the same person increases the potential for the existence of other disorders such as chronic fatigue, epilepsy and fibromyalgia.

Suzanne Simons, executive director of the National Headache Foundation, said it is important for migraine suffers to inform health-care providers about other health problems one may have.

"If you see multiple health-care providers, encourage them to communicate," she said. "This will ensure that you receive the most effective treatments."

Chaudhari said one avenue of treatment for migraines is pharmacology. He said medications include beta-adrenergic blockers, anti-depressants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, ibuprofen and anti-convulsants such as Topamax and Depakote.

Gardner said another avenue of treatment is non-medicinal therapy. This includes rest and sleep in a dark, quiet environment, cessation of smoking, exercise, biofeedback and relaxation techniques.

Both doctors say treatment options are available for all migraine suffers. For more information on migraines, visit www.headaches.org.

jobert@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 251