I get migraines a few days before my period starts. Is it common to have migraines
as part of PMS?
– Alaire*
Yes. Lots of women who have migraines
get them as part of their PMS symptoms. Doctors believe that changing hormone levels
are to blame for this type of headache, which is known as a menstrual migraine.
Take some steps to try to stop these headaches so you feel better. You could start
by taking an over-the-counter medicine like ibuprofen to see if that works. If you
often get headaches near your period, try taking the medicine for a few days around
that time, even if your headaches haven't started yet. Doing this might help you avoid
getting a headache. Getting enough sleep, not skipping meals, exercising regularly,
and managing stress are other ways to help prevent headaches.
If a headache does come on, sometimes a cool cloth or ice pack wrapped in a towel
can help. You can also try lying down in a quiet, dark room.
If these things don't work for you, or if your headaches are severe enough that
you miss school or other activities, talk to your doctor. He or she may recommend
a prescription medicine or refer you to a headache expert.
*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.
