More than 38 million people throughout the United States are currently living with migraines, and approximately 3 percent of these live with a condition known as chronic migraines.
This means they suffer more than one migraine episode each week, or their episodes last several days each week. As a family caregiver, it is important for you to understand migraines and how they can impact your aging parent. This can help you to give them the care and support needed to reduce their migraine days or the severity of the migraines. Part of this is recognizing the different stages of a migraine attack so you can intervene as quickly as possible.
The first stage of a migraine is known as prodrome.
This is an early stage that gives warning signs your senior may experience a migraine soon. Recognizing this stage can prepare your aging parent, you, and their senior care provider for the potential of an upcoming migraine attack, and the care your parent will need during this attack.
The prodrome phase of a migraine tends to occur around two days before the actual attack. Symptoms of this phase indicate changes within the body that will likely develop into a migraine. These can include:
- Mood changes
- Stiffness in the neck
- Constipation
- Frequent urination
- Cravings for certain foods
- Increased thirst
When you notice these symptoms in your aging parent, start to prepare for the onset of a migraine.
Just be prepared with items that comfort and relieve your parent can make the experience of the attack much more comfortable and manageable. Keep in mind these symptoms can indicate other health issues, so it is important if they continue beyond two or three days, you get in touch with your parent’s doctor to discuss them and identify their source.
How can home care help?
Starting senior care for an aging adult who is living with migraines can be a fantastic way to reduce their suffering and empower them to keep their condition under control. This senior home care services provider can give your aging parent a set of services specifically designed with their individual needs in mind.
These services are designed to address these needs and encourage your parent to pursue the healthiest and most satisfying lifestyle they can during this later chapter of their lives. When it comes to managing their migraines, this care provider can help your parent in a variety of ways. This can include helping them to avoid their triggers, encouraging them to make the lifestyle choices recommended by their doctor, assist with meal preparation, and offer medication reminders to keep them compliant.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering Home Care in Hillsborough, CA, call the caring staff at Aviva In-Home Care. Call today: (415) 795-2203
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