MedWatcher Quick Facts
- Chronic migraine occurs on 15 or more days per month
- Trigger factors can exacerbate the pain
- Preventive measures and medication can help
What is chronic migraine?
Chronic migraine is a specific form of migraine that occurs at least 15 days a month for more than three months a year. Unlike episodic migraine, which occurs occasionally, the chronic form can have a significant impact on your daily life and severely limit your quality of life.
Recognize trigger factors
A key aspect of managing chronic migraine is understanding and identifying so-called trigger factors. These can be certain foods, stress, hormonal fluctuations or environmental factors. Every person has individual triggers. It is therefore helpful to keep a migraine diary to identify these.
Preventive measures and lifestyle
Preventive measures are just as important as identifying trigger factors. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep and stress reduction can help to reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks. Relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga can also help.
Drug treatment
If lifestyle changes alone are not enough, there are various medications that can be taken either acutely during a migraine attack or as a preventative measure. It is important to coordinate medication with a doctor and to have regular check-ups to avoid side effects and interactions.
Chronic migraines can be distressing, but there are many strategies that can help you regain control. With the right combination of lifestyle changes, identification of trigger factors and, if necessary, medication, you can reduce attacks and improve your quality of life.