showcase August 2016 48 www.womanthismonth.com Dr Piyush Ostwal, neurology specialist, explains the causes and treatment of hormonal headaches. BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL TACKLING MENSTRUAL MIGRAINES Menstrual migraines, also known as ‘hormone headaches’, are a type of migraine occuring in response to changes in hormone levels during the menstrual cycle. Many sufferers experience a throbbing pain on one side of the head, often behind the eye or in the back of the head and neck, which can last from a few hours to a few days. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines, in general, occur three times more frequently among women than men. Of these women almost 60 per cent experience menstrual migraines. Hormones, including oestrogen and progesterone, fluctuate throughout the course of a woman’s cycle to regulate her ovulation and menstruation. Menstrual migraines may occur before, during or immediately after a woman's period or during ovulation. Although they can occur at different times during the cycle, a woman will usually experience her menstrual migraine at the same phase each month. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain, is the primary hormonal trigger of all migraine headaches and research suggests that for women with menstrual migraines, serotonin levels may be impacted by fluctuations in other female hormones, such as oestrogen. Because oral contraceptives influence oestrogen levels, women on birth control pills may also experience menstrual migraines. Women with menstrual migraines are treated with acute medications. If attacks are very frequent, severe or disabling, women may also benefit from use of preventive medication. Doctors recommend a treatment based on the severity and frequency of headaches and the past response to other treatments. If standard preventive measures are unsuccessful at controlling menstrual migraines, hormonal therapy may be indicated. This may involve the use of supplemental oestrogen taken prior to and during menstruation. Another approach for women who take an oestrogen/progesterone oral contraceptive is to take it daily without the monthly break for three to six months. The reduction in menstrual periods can provide a method of preventive treatment. If you’re unsure about whether you are experiencing a migraine or if menstrual migraines are affecting your quality of life, you may benefit from a discussion with your doctor. For more information email the doctor on [email protected]. Farewell Party The Italian Ambassador’s wife, Romina Vecchi, hosted a farewell party at their residence. Romina & Claudia Daniela & Florencia Lavinia, Elena & Antonella Lamya & Rocio Dana, Amal & Samira Tosin & Charlie Andrea, Anne & Romina Karina & Ann Perwin & Dana Leylane, Ramla & Lilian Eman & Simonetta Maria & Manuela Michela & Asla
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