The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted nearly every aspect of our lives—work, travel, finances, and even basic social etiquette have been affected.
It’s no surprise then that many people are experiencing worsened symptoms of anxiety and stress. Those of us who have managed to stay away from the news cycle and the constant barrage of updates are doing only slightly better.
For millions of Americans, stress is the biggest trigger of migraines; according to the American Migraine Foundation, between 50–70 percent of migraine sufferers have “a significant association between their daily stress level and their daily migraine activity.”
Not only has the frequency of migraines increased recently, but it has also become more difficult to access healthcare providers and medications.
To get a better understanding of how to manage migraines during this time, it’s essential to understand and recognize the triggers.
Understanding the triggers
The exact cause behind migraines is unknown, but most people that suffer from frequent migraines can pinpoint certain triggers that cause them. These can range from environmental factors, such as weather changes, to certain foods that your body cannot process.
Stress can increase both the intensity and frequency of migraines. Additionally, it can magnify other physiologic mechanisms, such as mood swings, sleep cycles, depression, and anxiety. While one doesn’t necessarily precede the other, there is a strong link between migraines and physiology.
Increased stress can give you anxiety and cause insomnia and depression. This often results in migraines that further degrade quality of life and personal well-being.
Recognizing the triggers
If information surrounding the coronavirus is troubling you, you may want to consider putting away the phone and tuning out the news for some time. While it’s important to stay updated, the constant barrage of varying opinions and misinformation can be stressful.
Stick to credible organizations, such as the World Health Organization or the CDC, for information. Additionally, limit the time you watch or read news about the pandemic to just 20 minutes a day.
Managing stress effectively
Watching the news constantly has affected mental health across the globe. WHO even put out a statement earlier this year asking people to limit their news intake.
Set simple boundaries and ground rules for yourself to avoid falling into a poor lifestyle. Exercise, eat healthy, and maintain a regular routine to keep yourself in fit and avoid stress-induced migraines.
If you’re experiencing frequent and severe tension headaches or migraines, Movement Help offers specialized treatment for movement disorders and headaches in LA.
To consult with our neurology specialists, call (949) 239-4410 now.
