Thursday, February 28, 2008

Health Tips for February 28

Health Tip: What's Behind My Migraine?

Migraines are severe headaches that can also cause nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.

Migraines are more common in women than men. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services lists these common triggers of migraines in women:

* Not getting enough to eat.
* Not getting enough sleep.
* Exposure to bright lights or loud noise.
* Fluctuating hormone levels, such as during your period.
* Changes in the weather.
* Emotional factors, such as stress or anxiety.
* Chocolate, alcohol, nicotine or foods with additives such as MSG.

Health Tip: Canker Sores

Canker sores are painful ulcers inside the mouth that most often occur on the base of the gums, inside the cheeks or lips, on the soft palate, or on the tongue. They typically do not require treatment and go away on their own.

Certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing canker sores. Here's a list, courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine:

* Family history of canker sores.
* Weakened immune system.
* Dental work.
* Biting the inside of the cheek or the tongue.
* Stress, anxiety or changes in hormone levels.
* Malnutrition, particularly deficiencies in iron, folic acid or vitamin B-12.
* Allergic reaction to food.
* Viral infection.

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