Medical Health

with Kirsty Lilley

Migraine awareness

Migraine awareness week runs from 5th to 11th September 2022 and aims to highlight the debilitating neurological condition, which usually starts in early adulthood and affects one in five women and one in fifteen men in the UK.

Migraine is the third most common disease globally with the prevalence rates at one in seven. Unfortunately, research has recently indicated that almost 23% of people who have been experiencing migraine attacks in the UK have waited over two years for treatment. There is a need for more information and awareness.

A migraine is usually a moderate or severe headache felt as a throbbing pain on one side of the head. Many people also have symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and increased sensitivity to light or sound. They are known as a wholebody event.

There are several types of migraine, including migraine with an aura, which refers to specific warning signs that may indicate the onset of migraine including flashing lights in front of the eyes. Migraine without aura, the most common type, is where it starts without specific warning signs.

The exact cause of migraines is unknown, although they are thought to be the result of abnormal brain activity temporarily affecting nerve signals, chemistry and blood vessels. There is also known to be a genetic component which might make it more likely you will experience migraine because of a specific trigger.

There can be several different triggers to these events including hormonal changes, certain food or drinks, stress, tiredness or other environmental conditions. It can be helpful to keep a note of anything that is associated with the onset of migraines so you can build up a picture of what may be contributing. Managing stress levels and paying attention to diet will certainly be helpful lifestyle changes.

When to get medical advice

variety of medications which can help. Over the counter painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can be effective in reducing symptoms, but be sure to follow the recommended guidelines for usage. If you are on any other medications, check with your local pharmacist for any contraindications. If these are proving ineffective or you are experiencing frequent or severe migraine symptoms (over five attacks a month by the NHS guidelines) it is recommended that you see your GP even if you are currently on medication, as it may be that you will benefit from preventive treatment. Migraines can severely impact on your quality of life and reduce or stop your ability to carry out daily activities. Several effective treatments are available to help prevent or treat symptoms so there is no need to suffer in silence. Ensure you are speaking to your GP for help and support. For further help and information visit www.nhs.uk or www.migrainetrust.org The Local Answer To advertise call 01242 510500 Page 15

Supporting you to get work ready

National Star is helping people with disabilities secure paid employment thanks to specialist courses and expert job coaches experienced in working with people with learning and physical disabilities. Enrolments are open for courses starting this autumn and prospective students are being encouraged to nd out how the award-winning college can support them. Unlike traditional courses, National Star’s work outcome programmes are highly practical and often delivered out in the community, with students being supported on work placements. Wherever possible the college tries to nd an employer close to home for work placements and can offer travel training for students so that they gain condence in using public transport. Students who enrol on the programme have a wide range of disabilities including autism, Down syndrome, social anxiety, acquired brain injury and cerebral palsy. What all learners have in common is a desire to gain paid employment or a long-term volunteering role so that they can support themselves and become more independent. Most programmes offer vocational qualications and all offer the chance to brush up maths and English skills. The work skills courses vary in length from six months to three years and anyone aged 16 and over can apply. Recent learners have moved into paid positions at top Cheltenham schools and restaurants. Josh, who has autism and mental health challenges, was struggling to nd work before joining the programme. He wanted to get into the hospitality trade but needed support. Now he works at The Ivy restaurant in Cheltenham.

Prep chef Josh at The Ivy restaurant, Cheltenham

Discover more about how National Star can help you improve your job chances at www.nationalstar.org/workskills