It is estimated that 39 million of people in America suffer from migraine headaches. Symptoms usually vary from person to person and often involve various parts of the body (e.g., pain/pressure around eyes, temples, jaw, neck, sinuses, sensitivity to light, noise, nausea, vomiting, appetite loss, dizziness, blurred vision). A migraine attack can seriously affect person’s day-to-day life. It may lead to changes in mood (e.g., irritability), muscle tension/pain, low energy levels, and trouble concentrating. Not surprisingly, the World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes severe migraine attack as a seriously disabling condition. Fortunately, biofeedback can help a person learn skills to reduce the headache frequency and severity by up to 45-60% (American Migraine Foundation).
Common Migraine Triggers
- Emotional/physical stress
- Poor sleep
- Certain foods (alcohol, especially red wine, dairy products, chocolate), sweeteners and preservatives
- Dehydration
- Hormonal Changes
- Certain Medications
- Barometric pressure changes
Lifestyle changes can help reduce the above triggers for migraines. Biofeedback can also be beneficial, especially as it can help mange stress that often triggers migraine attacks. Our bodies change when we are in pain or stressed. The heart rate increases, breathing is faster/more shallow, and muscles get more tense. Biofeedback can provide skills to slow your breathing, reduce heart rate, including physical tension so that you can regain control over your body. Here at NRS, we offer biofeedback which can help you manage your migraine more effectively. If you or someone you know suffers from migraine headaches, please contact our office for a consultation.
Basia Andrejko-Gworek, Ph.D.
Clinical Psychology, Post-Doctoral Fellow
Permit# TP #213-03