Piles of paper works left on your desk unattended, basket-full of soiled clothes scattered all around the house and kitchen sinks with a dozen of dirty dishes - these are realities almost every household has to face - all because of migraine. When this "unwelcomed visitor" knocks employers start to shout because one or two of their employees allowed the "visitor" in. Time, money and energy are wasted every single day as a result of migraine. This is one of the most common illness yet one of the less understood.

Migraine is a very painful type of headache and the pain is often described as pulsing or throbbing in one area of the head. When it attacks, people become very sensitive to light, sound and may also become nauseated and vomit.

The illness according to medical researches is more common in men than women. The researches likewise found that there is no one cause for migraine but several factors were pointed including anxiety, stress, lack of sleep or food and exposure to light.

In the past, physicians believed that migraines were linked to the opening and narrowing of blood vessels in the head. However, after further researches, another hypothesis was raised saying its cause is related to genes that control the activity of some brain cells.

A number of different triggers can instigate migraines in those susceptible. Some are out of the individual's control, such as particular weather patterns or phases of the menstrual cycle. Other triggers can be identified and avoided; these include foods such as chocolate, fish, certain cheeses and monosodium glutamate. Environmentally, smoke, bright lights or certain smells can also play a part.

Because there is no specific cause of the disease as of yet, neither is there any specific medicine in the market to stop it. Medicines can help prevent migraine attacks or help relieve symptoms of attacks when they happen. For many people, treatments to relieve stress can also help.

Exact causes of migraine have yet to be determined but medical experts say while researches continue. There are simple remedies aside from swallowing a bitter pain reliever pill.

Change bed linens

Too troubled by migraine which keeps attacking every time you rise up from bed? Then get rid of your bed sheet and blankets, these may be the culprit! Studies show that beddings made of acrylic or polyester emit a certain kind of gas that triggers allergy including headaches.

Acrylic fibers are artificial fibers made from a special group of vinyl compounds, primarily acrylonitrile. Acrylic fibers are thermoplastic which soften when heated and hardened upon cooling. These fibers have low moisture regain and are low in density.

Avoid wheat

Researches disclosed that gluten, a major ingredient in most processed foods like canned soups, sauces, gravies, salad dressings, luncheon meat, whiskey and wine trigger migraine attacks.

Gluten is an amorphous ergastic protein found combined with starch in the endosperm of some cereals, notably wheat, rye, and barley. It constitutes about 80% of the proteins contained in wheat, and is composed of the proteins gliadin and glutenin.

Open car windows

Some new car interiors today, researches claimed, are made of materials which trigger the attacks. Some car interiors emit gases including xylene, toluene, benzene, acetone and n-hexane which cause migraine, stress and drowsiness.

It is best they advised, to open car windows regularly to allow these toxic gases to evaporate.

These remedies may sound "weird" to some but to others who have tried attest that they are indeed effective. In doubt, Why not give these remedies a try and if you don't get relieved - consult your doctor!