More on the dreaded light bulb
January 7, 2008 8:17 am
Since my last post regarding CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Lights), there has been a media frenzy on the topic. My news reader has been inundated (flooded, taken over, buried in) with passionate stories about the energy-saving bulbs. So I think it's time to step back, take a deep breath, and get some perspective.
First, here's what has happened. The Migraine Action Association said that there was some "concern" that the new bulbs may trigger migraine (not cause - trigger). So far so good - they're right, there is concern. No arguing with that.
Naturally, the folks that sell the new bulbs had to defend themselves. Most of them are saying that the main problems are with the older fluorescents (which flicker at a slower rate), or defective or worn-out bulbs (which obviously cause everyone a problem!).
They were also defending themselves against the charge that the flickering may cause seizures. As far as I understand, this is very rare and again is usually more of a problem with old technology.
Then came the concern from skin experts (including the British Association of Dermatologists). Apparently the bulbs could cause problems for people with some skin conditions (such as eczema) - just by being near a functioning bulb. Then if the bulb breaks things get worse. The UK Department for Environment warned that broken bulbs need to be disposed of very carefully (ie rubber gloves, special bags and special recycling bins). The bulbs contain mercury, and they're telling us the room should actually be evacuated for 15 minutes if a bulb breaks. Environmentalists are concerned that bulbs in landfills may give off enough mercury dust to cause serious health issues in the area.
This is a political issue. It's an environmental issue. It's a money issue. It's a health issue. People are passionate about it. It's the perfect storm. Expect trials by the people selling the lightbulb, then expect those not to be trusted (naturally), then expect new "independent" trials. Meanwhile people for and against the new bulbs are calling the other side stupid, greedy or selfish.
So what does this frenzy mean to us people with migraine or tension headache?
Realize that the studies on this are still limited. If you express concern, you should be taken seriously, but you may not yet have years of science to back you up. Do what you feel will be best for your health in the mean time.
I stand by my suggestion that natural light and LED bulbs are often the better choice - both for health and the environment. Your boss may not think this is realistic. But do express your opinion, and find ways to compromise. Find things that will be acceptable for everyone. Don't get swept away by the hype on either side of the issue.
» To reference this entry use this permalink
Myofascial Release
January 8, 2008 8:13 pm
Thanks to Kerrie over at The Daily Headache for introducing me to the concept of myofascial release. This type of alternative treatment is being used in various parts of the world to help fight migraine and headaches, and so I figured it was time I checked it out.
Myofascial release is like a massage, though practitioners throw up their hands in horror if you called it massage. It's actually a very specific type of treatment, not just a back rub.
Fascia is the connective tissue between organs and muscles. It's no secret that this tissue is involved in the headache equation. Treating this fabric in the body has been studied from various fronts.
Myofascial release essentially stretches this fabric and the muscle - hence the term myofascial. The therapist feels the muscles and tries to bring "release" to tight areas. Sore areas can often be found just by the feel of the muscles and fascia, and the release can relax and begin to heal the problem.
This approach makes a lot of sense. Many of us know that there are sore, tight spots that can increase pain. These may be caused by injuries, or just poor posture. Perhaps migraine attacks themselves - or any kind of pain - can cause a vicious circle of injury. To relax and heal those areas is the goal of myofascial release.
There are a lot of success stories. I'm not familiar with many specific trials, but this does seem to be in line with our understanding of the body. If you've tried it, please share your comments with us. Meanwhile, read some of Kerrie's latest thoughts. Also, see the approach of one clinic in the UK when treating headache or migraine.
» To reference this entry use this permalink
Chew celery
January 14, 2008 4:12 pm
Here's a quick home remedy for the next time you have a headache: Chew celery. Or carrots. Or anything hard-and-healthy.
Seriously. Exercising those jaw muscles can loosen things up and make you feel a whole lot better - depending on the type of headache you have.
Just don't eat too much celery. It you do, you might find your jaw muscles getting sore, or getting tense, and you might end up with a headache the next day. That's why people that chew a lot of gum can end up with jaw problems and headaches.
And here's a bonus tip: If you try the first tip and discover that it works, it may be a sign you have problems with your jaw. There could be damage to the joint, or you could be over-using your jaw muscles by chewing, or grinding your teeth at night. Have a specialist check for damage, but even if there isn't actual damage you could have tired muscles from teeth grinding or clenching. And that's a great recipe for headaches.
» To reference this entry use this permalink
IMPORTANT: Headache and Migraine News Blog has moved!
January 24, 2008 5:52 pm
Update your news readers and your bookmarks - the Headache and Migraine News Blog has moved to a new location! Don't worry, it's not far. Just click here to go there! The new address is blog.relieve-migraine-headache.com.
» To reference this entry use this permalink
|
