Migraine Headaches During the Coronavirus Pandemic: Tips to Help Alleviate Stress Migraines in the Midst of COVID-19 by Dr. Sommer Ebdlahad

Nearly one in four U.S. households has someone who suffers from migraine headaches. That’s a whopping 39 million Americans who know all too well how stress can trigger this debilitating neurological disorder. Now they and the rest of the country are experiencing the stress that comes with current global and national crises including the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Many families are still stuck at home, isolated and worried about their financial future – a surefire recipe for stress. Here are my top tips to ward off stress migraines and manage stress overall during these unprecedented times:

Migraines Are Common

• A migraine is a neurological disorder that causes severe debilitating pain that can can last four to 72 hours.

• One out of every 10 people suffer from migraines – that’s 39 million Americans (some estimates suggest as many as 50 million Americans are impacted).

• Nearly one in four U.S. households includes someone with migraine.

• Ten percent of schoolchildren are affected by migraines, too.

Stress Can Trigger Migraines

• Stress can, and does, come from many sources. The coronavirus pandemic and the associated anxiety can cause tremendous stress.

• When stress is overwhelming, the human brain’s ability to function normally is affected and can cause migraines.

Top Three Tips to Reduce Stress Migraines

• Get Moving: Exercise can reduce our body’s stress hormones while stimulating the production of endorphins – the chemicals that elevate our mood and serve as the body’s natural painkillers.

• Get Those ZZZZs: The Sleep Foundation says the range of needed sleep varies from person to person, but generally seven to nine hours for young adults and adults, and seven to eight hours of sleep for older adults is recommended.

• Reduce Alcohol, Caffeine and Smoking: All of these may appear to reduce stress in the short term, but combined with hormonal changes, they can trigger migraines.

Continue to Build Community

• Research shows that maintaining a sense of connectedness with others improves overall well-being and physical health.

• A support system is especially critical today. Use programs like Facetime, Skype or WhatsApp to connect with friends and loved ones when we can’t physically be together.

• Get outside and talk to neighbors. Making sure you’re standing the recommended 6 feet apart. 

The information on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information provided through this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider.

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