Q: For years I suffered all the classic signs and symptoms of migraines. Medication did nothing for me. Even while experiencing nausea and vomiting, I found I had intense cravings for certain foods. I notice that my symptoms improved temporarily as I ate, but returned as soon as I was done. I began to realize that it was the chewing action that provided relief and not the food. I now chew two to three pieces of gum at the first sign of a migraine and within minutes it is gone.
Please let others know about this cheap and effective remedy. I have also found that chiropractic treatment to be a more long-term solution for repeat migraines.
A: Migraines are rather common, affecting about 30% of our population every year. The pain is intense, the head will throb, and the sufferer may experience vomiting and nausea. Some researchers have found what appears to be abnormal brain activity and abnormal brain structure in some sufferers.
A migraine may be caused by countless causes that may be hormonal, chemical, behavioral, environmental or even dietary in nature. Each sufferer has had his or her experiences with what can set off a migraine, some of which can be recognized and others that are overlooked and cannot. Examples are exposure to light, unique smells and loud sounds. Studies have even identified changes in humidity or the barometric pressure as common triggers. Women report a connection with their menstrual cycle, perhaps because of the fluctuation of hormone levels. Most migraines begin without an aura – a symptom that begins gradually, builds rather rapidly, and the aura can last up to 30 minutes. There may be flashes of light, a tingling sensation in an extremity, or other indication of the forthcoming headache. Migraines can last for hours or even days. The individual will likely be extremely sensitive to light, and sound, preferring to sit in a dark room with no noise.
Oddly, the mere act of chewing actually triggers an attack in some individuals and does not prevent it as occurs in your case. Perhaps you have an undiagnosed related mulsculo-skeletal issue such as temporal mandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome that is relieved through mastication. It will certainly be interesting to receive feedback from other migraine sufferers as to whether the practice helps or hinders the process. We’re all different and you may have certainly hit on something that could be a breakthrough in the fight against these debilitating episodes.
Other alternative treatment for relief may include stress reduction such as relaxation techniques and biofeedback, massage, acupuncture, and herbals. Stress appears contributory to migraines. Displacing oneself whenever possible from such situations is a step in the right direction. Biofeedback utilizes small electrodes attached to the skin to measure the amount of muscle tension or skin temperatures. Massage may be performed as a stress reducer and tension reliever. For those individuals with muscle tension, this may be the answer. Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese technique utilizing fine needles inserted into specific areas of the body to correct energy imbalances. It is believed acupuncture can correct the imbalances and restore emotional, physical and mental health. Herbs and aromatherapy tend to encourage relaxation. There is no firm evidence to substantiate their use but some individuals find relief when utilizing such products as essential oils, lavender and ginger.
Readers who are interested in learning more can order Dr. Gott’s Health Report “Headaches” by sending a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and a $2 US check or money order to Peter H. Gott, MD Health Report, PO Box 433, Lakeville, CT 06039. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form from www.AskDrGottMD.com.