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It’s no
secret that with budgets, time crunches, endless logistical coordination and
family expectations, many couples experience increased anxiety and stress as
their wedding day approaches. However, for people with migraine, stress, along
with other potential triggers, can invite an unwelcome guest to spoil their
special day: a migraine headache. Thus, people with migraine need to plan ahead
to help avoid or alleviate certain triggers and symptoms. Following are some
tips to help “keep your head” while you wed:
Stay
Calm
Stress
and lack of sleep are two commonly reported migraine triggers. While it’s only
natural to feel anxious before and on your big day, getting enough rest and
managing stress are crucial to avoiding migraine. Try to take a few minutes
each day to relax, such as doing deep breathing exercises or taking a long bath
to wind down before bed, and don’t skimp on your sleep.
The
Menu
When
planning the wedding menu, migraine sufferers should keep in mind that cheeses,
citrus fruits, and chocolate may induce or worsen a migraine. Couples should
consult with their caterer to limit menu options that contain these
ingredients. And although the celebratory toast is a traditional part of the
reception, sufferers should consider raising something other than wine or
champagne, as alcohol, especially red wine, is a possible trigger.
Location, Location, Location
Climate
is another factor to take into consideration. While it’s popular to hold
weddings in the summer or in remote destinations, couples must be mindful that
weather changes, humidity, and high altitude can trigger a migraine attack.
Couples prone to migraine who wish to have an outdoor ceremony should thoroughly
research the location, so they are familiar with the climate and altitude, and
understand the potential weather-related triggers that may be present.
Taking Pictures
Capturing memories with photographs is essential for a bride and groom.
However, the glare and flickering light of the flash may trigger a migraine
headache. To minimize the likelihood of this, couples may wish to take pictures
outdoors, in natural light, to avoid the need for a flash.
Last-Minute Advice
If any
member of your wedding party suffers from migraine, it might be wise to share
with them the nuptial tips above. Dr. Carol Foster, founder of Valley
Neurological Headache and Research Center in Phoenix, offers the following
advice: “Along with lifestyle changes, such as managing stress, staying
hydrated and limiting alcohol,” says Dr. Foster, “it’s important for people with
migraine to talk to their doctor to find a treatment that’s right for them.
Many sufferers may not be aware that there are migraine-specific prescription
medicines available, such as Relpax, to relieve the pain and symptoms.”
“I’ve
never been as stressed as I was while planning my wedding. My fiancé and I had
to make sure we avoided all potential triggers when making the arrangements,”
says Kimberly Rollman, 29, a migraine sufferer from Tucson, Arizona. “Talking
to my doctor helped tremendously. I strongly encourage couples everywhere to do
the same—it made our big day perfect!”
An
estimated 28 million Americans suffer from migraine---a severe, throbbing pain
usually on one side of the head, often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to
light and sound. Migraine usually lasts from a few hours to several days,
impairing the most routine activities. Despite the impact and prevalence
of migraine, the condition remains significantly underdiagnosed and undertreated.
Important Information About Relpax®
(eletriptan hydrobromide)
The
most common side effects reported in clinical trials with Relpax compared with
placebo included dizziness (6 percent vs. 3 percent), nausea (5 percent vs. 5
percent), weakness (5 percent vs. 3 percent), and tiredness (6 percent vs. 3
percent).
As with
other triptans, it is strongly recommended that Relpax not be given to patients
in whom unrecognized coronary artery disease (CAD) is predicted by the presence
of risk factors, unless a clinical evaluation provides evidence that the patient
is free of underlying cardiovascular disease. Relpax should not be used within
at least 72 hours of treatment with the following potent CYP3A4 inhibitors:
ketoconazole, itraconazole, nefazodone, troleandomycin, clarithromycin,
ritonavir, and nelfinavir.
For
more information about Relpax, including full prescribing information, visit
www.relpax.com
or call 1-866-4-RELPAX. |
