Festive season headaches

Sufferers should pay careful attention to what they eat and drink over the next few weeks while attending Christmas and New Year's parties. Dr Shevel has the following advice for sufferers:

• In summer, people who are prone to headaches and migraines should take plenty of fluids. Dehydration is known to trigger migraines in some people, so be sure to remain properly hydrated. It is best to drink plain water, as many carbonated soft drinks contain substances that can also trigger headaches. Substances that headache sufferers should avoid include common ingredients such as caffeine and artificial sweeteners. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol leads to dehydration. Headache sufferers should try not to drink liquor if it is a trigger to their headache. If they do have a drink, ensure that they drink plenty of water during and following a session of indulgence. At least one glass of water to each glass of alcohol is advisable.
  
• Too much hard partying until the early hours may also mean that headache patients do not get enough sleep - also a major trigger of headaches and migraines.
  
• A healthy diet with regular and well-balanced meals can often work wonders for a headache-prone person.
  
• Many headache and migraine sufferers are sensitive to bright light and avoid it when they have a headache, it is also a trigger. It is wise to wear sunglasses for protection. Polarised lenses are recommended, as they are effective in cutting out glare and a suitable hat may also be helpful.
  
• Changes in season also bring about changes in the pollen types that are in the air and these may directly trigger hay-fever and sinus congestion which can trigger headaches.
  
• Summer can also be a very stressful time, thanks to large family gatherings over the festive season, and stress is a major headache trigger. Headache and migraine sufferers should try to manage stress and plan ahead of time for big family get-togethers and holidays to avoid tension headaches. For example, try to avoid last minute gift shopping, ensure your car is serviced before travelling, delegate chores to family members and make travel reservations well in advance.
  
• People who are sensitive to fragrances and/or other odours should bear this in mind when shopping for sunscreen, insect repellent and other summer products. Seek those that are fragrance free and ask a pharmacist for advice if necessary.

It is important that migraine patients, and those who live and work with them, understand that migraine pain is a real neurobiological disease that can be treated following proper diagnosis, says Dr Shevel. People who suffer from migraines and headaches are urged to seek treatment so that they do not have to live with this unbearable condition.