Valentine's Day migraine alert

For half a million people in Ireland who suffer from migraine, Valentine’s Day, which falls on Saturday, can become a major headache.

Migraine can be set in motion by certain triggers. These can include – stress, hormones, sun-glare, changes in atmospheric pressure, over-exertion, and other factors, according to the Migraine Association of Ireland (MAI).

However, some of the most common gifts given, and luxuries enjoyed, on Valentine’s Day, such as chocolates and alcohol, are also cited frequently as migraine triggers.  

“Over 20% of sufferers cite dietary factors as triggers,” says Donna Walsh, Information Officer at the Migraine Association of Ireland.

“Chocolate and alcohol are always ranked highly on this list and should be avoided if they are proven triggers for you. If you can’t resist, have one glass of champagne or white wine, as it is generally dark alcoholic beverages that are the danger.”

Other sufferers say that certain smells can trigger their migraine – including the scent of perfumes or fresh flowers.

The MAI advises that sufferers let their partners know if a specific perfume or flower can spark off a migraine attack.

The Association also advises those for whom alcohol is not a known trigger to drink plenty of water, as dehydration can also induce migraine. Sufferers should also try to maintain their regular sleeping pattern as lack of sleep or over-sleeping can trigger migraine.

For further information on migraine see: http://www.migraine.ie or call the MAI helpline on 1850 200 378 (ROI) or 0844 826 9323 (NI).

[Posted: Mon 09/02/2009]