America runs on caffeine. Often, it is already pouring before anyone even gets out of bed in the morning, courtesy of modern technology that supplies programmable coffee pots. A few cups a day is nothing to shy away from unless you have medical issues. However, constant or frequent consumption can cause some painful side-effects, much of which over 12% of the American population experiences.
The caffeine migraine is most often triggered by withdrawal. If your body is used to having a cup of coffee every morning and this morning you were too busy to pour it, you are more susceptible to experiencing a migraine and often smack dab in the middle of your 10 AM meeting. Other times, people can be sensitive to the consumption of caffeine, triggering a migraine after just one cup.
Why do migraines occur from caffeine withdrawal or consumption?
Caffeine, especially when consumed in heavier doses, causes the blood vessels in the brain to narrow, restricting normal amounts of blood flow. Without the caffeine, the blood vessels begin to widen. This causes blood to flow more freely. Sudden changes can cause a migraine, whether from a reduction of blood flow or a rush of more blood, patients will experience symptoms differently.
What are the most important steps to take to prevent caffeine migraines?
Acupuncture is a wonderful place to start.
Princeton Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine encourages our patients to be very proactive in office and while at home. During treatments, patients will be evaluated for symptom severity and duration, medical history, and possible migraine triggers, such as caffeine. Our therapies aim to improve self-healing processes within the body which produce naturally occurring pain-relieving hormones called Endorphins. Instead of using over-the-counter medications that supply temporary relief, acupuncture tackles the root causes of the migraine, helping the body to heal while relieving current symptoms.
While at home, there are several things that you can do to aid in your journey to healing. You should always stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water every day can help keep those annoying migraines at bay. We recommend eight six-ounce glasses of water per day. Being hydrated helps the body to work properly, including the brain and the flow of blood.
You should also be getting plenty of rest. During sleep, our bodies can heal, regenerate cells, and re-balance. Sometimes a good nap is the best remedy for a migraine. Just make sure the room you’re sleeping in is dark, quiet and free from distractions, such as your phone.
Lastly, if you are experiencing regular migraine headaches, you should strongly consider reducing your caffeine consumption. Due to the chances of withdrawal, we do not recommend that you stop cold turkey. To effectively wean the body from routine caffeine consumption, you must do it slowly over a period of time, typically one to two weeks.
If you are experiencing symptoms of a caffeine migraine, such as –
- Low energy
- Decreased mood.
- Trouble concentrating
- Head, neck, or shoulder pain,
we are here to help. By establishing a regular acupuncture routine, you will be setting yourself up for total migraine relief.
You don’t have to endure your pain any longer. Let us pour you a cup of relief today!
Princeton Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Our patients know just how effective treatments are for these and a host of other problems. Steven Hoffman, a New Jersey Licensed Acupuncturist and Diplomate in Oriental Medicine, will provide you with a thorough intake and evaluation and a clear, comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan that will insure that your goals are met or exceeded. Do you want to move past these or other problems? We will help you thrive not just survive!