Living With EDS Migraines: What You Need To Know
EDS migraines happened because EDS leads to weakeness of vessels, reduce circulation and oxygen, that triggers migraine headaches.
Overview
Being a patient with a health problem such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) with migraines can be stressing and difficult. Whereas EDS is a collection of connective tissue disorders, migraines are severe headaches that may interfere with life. Interestingly, most EDS patients complain of migraines yet it is essential to understand the linkage between the two to manage it appropriately. This paper will delve into the cause of EDS related migraines, treatment and advice on improving quality of life.
What is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome ?
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome refers to a cluster of genetic diseases which affect connective tissues like
- Joints
- Blood vessels
- Skin
Hypermobile EDS or hEDS is the most popular type of EDS out of 13.
Common Symptoms of eds
The most widespread symptoms of this connective tissue disease are;
- Chronic pain and fatigue
- Hypermobility of joints (unusually flexible joints)
- Repeat dislocations or injuries of the joints.
- Weak skin (which may tear or injure easily)
Note: EDS also impacts connective tissues throughout the body, and thus complications such as migraines may arise because blood vessels, and nerves are involved.
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What are migraines?
Migraine is not just a painful headache. It is brain disorders which may be very
- Painful
- Nauseate
- Light-sensitive
- Disturb images in sight( known as auras)
Symptoms of migraines
By notifying these symptoms you can recognize the migraines.
- Nausea or vomiting
- Light, sound, smell sensitivity
- Eyes Visual disturbances (blind spots or flashing lights)
- On one side of your head pain is very sharp
Note: Migraines may remain between a few hours and several days, they may also change in intensity.
What is the relationship between EDS and migraine?
Individuals with EDS have increased risk of migraine, so why?
Its cause is not well comprehended but there are a few factors associated with this correlation.
Blood vessel issues: The EDS may cause weakness of blood vessel walls causing blood circulation issues. Lack of proper circulation can cause headaches of migraines because of the lack of oxygen in the brain.
Cervical instability: EDS usually leads to joint instability even in the neck. Nerves or blood vessels may be compressed by cervical instability causing headaches or migraine.
Dysautonomia: Most EDS patients also have dysautonomia, which is abnormal functioning of the autonomic nervous system. This may result in an inability to regulate blood flow, which causes migraine. Tension and muscle pain Muscle strain and tension is not uncommon in EDS because the joints are unstable. This may be a cause of tension headaches, or migraines.
EDS causes migraines in patients
The people with EDS can experience migraines more often or serious due to several triggers:
Stress: Stress may cause migraines, whether emotional or physical.
Sleep issues: EDS frequently results in poor sleep which is one of the known triggers of migraine.
Dehydration: ED patients can become dehydrated because of autonomic dysfunction, which puts them at risk of migraine.
Hormonal variations: Migraines may be caused by hormone changes that recur particularly in women.
Dietary triggers: Migraine can be brought on by some foods such as caffeine, chocolate or processed meat.
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Diagnosis migraines in EDM patients
Effective treatment is only possible with proper diagnosis. Health experts tend to combine the following of diagnosis:
Medical history: To Learn the symptoms of the individual, and family medical history.
Physical examination: An assessment of EDS symptoms including hyper mobile joints or skin fragilities.
Symptom diary: The patient can be requested to monitor their migraine and possible triggers.
Imaging tests: Doctors suggest CT scans or MRIs to exclude other causes of headaches. It will help to diagnose the main cause.
Migraine treatments EDS associated migraine
Treatment of migraines in EDM patients needs a multi-faceted approach. The methods may involve medication, lifestyle modifications and specialized therapies.
Medications pain relievers
Non-prescription drugs such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be used to treat mild migraine.
- Triptans: Sumatriptan and similar prescription medications specifically address the pain of migraine.
- Prevention drugs: Beta-blockers, anti-depressants, or anti-seizure drugs may decrease the frequency of migraines.
Physical therapy
This type of therapy has the ability to build muscles and stabilize the neck, which decreases the triggers of migraines such as cervical instability.
Lifestyle modifications
It is possible to make changes in everyday routine to significantly decrease the occurrence of migraine:
- Hydrate your body: Take in a lot of water on a daily basis.
- Establish achievable sleep schedules: Have a consistent sleeping schedule and create a bedtime ritual.
- Cope with stress: Attempt relaxation methods such as deep breathing, yoga or meditating.
- Find triggers: Use migraine journal to avoid and identify triggers.
- Dietary Adjustments: The balance in nutrition can be used in controlling EDS as well as migraine. Foods that are good sources of magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants can help to maintain health.
The cognitive behavioral therapy
CBT assists patients to deal with stress and emotional reactions to pain, which can be helpful in EDS and migraines.
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The use of natural remedies of EDS and migranes
If EDS patient don’t want to use an medication they can follow these home remedies. So keep reading
- Essential oil: Peppermint or lavender oil may be helpful when applied to the temples.
- Acupuncture: This is a traditional practice that could be useful in preventing the severity and frequency of migraine.
- Supplements: Riboflavin, magnesium, (vitamin B2), and coenzyme Q10 are commonly used by physicians in the treatment of migraine.
- Light exercise: Such exercise as swimming or walking can assist in circulation and reduce tension.
Dealing with EDS and migraines
EDS with migraines is a challenging life to live, yet, there are ways to simplify the daily routine.
Build a support system: You should meet your family members, friends, or can join the support groups where you can share your experiences and can receive emotional support.
Educate yourself: Knowing your condition will enable you to negotiate your needs with your medical professionals.
Work with specialists: EDS may involve the involvement of several specialists, including neurologists, geneticists and physical therapists. Pacing activities: Ensure that you do not overdo things by taking breaks. To minimize the load the joints you can use braces.
Campaign on behalf of the accommodations: In case work or school is impaired by migraines or EDS symptoms, ask to be accommodated with such adjustments as flexible work schedules or an ergonomic setup.
When to see a doctor
When the occurrence and intensity of migraines are persistent, intense, and are incurable, then it is important to seek medical attention. Consult a doctor when you get:
- Daily or constant migraines
- Symptoms such as confusion, mental blindness or apathy
- Worsening EDS symptoms
Conclusion
The relation of EDS and migraines could not be doubted, still, with the appropriate strategies, the two issues can be managed. Medical interventions, lifestyle changes, and natural remedies are a combination that can be used to enhance the quality of life and minimize the symptoms. It is important to keep in mind that the early intervention and adequate care are the main ways to reduce the effects of these conditions.
FAQs
Can EDS cause migraines?
Yes, EDS may be the cause of migraines because of blood vessel problems, cervical instability and autonomic dysfunction.
So what is the optimal management of migraines in EDM patients?
A combination of therapies of medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications is the best. You should always seek advice with a doctor.
Do hypermobile EDS patients have migraines?
Hypermobile EDS is often associated with migraines because of the instability of the joints and inadequate circulation.
Does Bread change diet aid in migraine?
Yes, migraine frequency may be decreased by avoiding triggers and eating a balanced nutritional diet.
Can EDM patients with migraine exercise safely?
Activities such as low-impact exercises as swimming or yoga may be helpful, however, it is necessary not to overstrain.
