More than Just a Bad Headache

A space to share your feedback. Over to you.

As a long-time sufferer of migraines, I know just how frustrating it is to be told that my 'bad headache' will soon pass. A migraine is not a simple headache, but brings with it a host of other malaises. Light-headedness, lack of sleep, limb numbness, neck pain, vomitting, blurred vision and even depression are all part of the package deal when you suffer from migraines.
Everyone needs to be educated about migraines (Battling The Migraine Monster, Oct 16) and its life-altering repercussions, so that we can empathise with those who suffer from it. There is no single trigger or cause of this disease, but is rather a lifestyle issue. My shrink pointed out that stress, poor diet and poor sleep patterns were the determining factors in the onset of my migraine crises.
In the beginning, the symptoms were terrifying, especially as I didn't know what to expect. I immediately opted for medications. As time passed, all I could do was try to decrease the impact it had on my everyday activities. I learnt to identify the symptoms - things as unrelated as the craving for hot cocoa can put me on red alert that a migraine could be lurking around the corner. I've learnt to immediately leave ?everything aside, no matter how important, and move to a quiet place and close my eyes, when the migraine hits me. Head and back massages, a fixed sleep schedule, a balanced diet and exercise plan have helped me cope with my terrible migraines.
It is good to see that  migraines are being acknowledged as a serious problem. The fear and confusion a first-time migraine sufferer goes through is severe. The higher the awareness, the less will be the victim's mental trauma. Thank you, wknd. for highlighting this issue.

Congratulations on your winning entry, Aneesh Cheru! We will contact you shortly.

Head On with Migraines

The unfortunate truth that there is no official cure for migraines is the worst news for millions of people who live with this condition. The article Battling The Migraine Monster (Oct 16) was a thought-provoking piece for all those who are in the clutches of these monstrous attacks. As migraines are subjective, it becomes a chall-enge to identify the triggering factors. Once you are able to point them out, you can find some comfort. I strongly agree with the fact that in the UAE, the common causes are stress, lack of sleep, lifestyle and irregular eating habits.
The other most disturbing factor is the fact that women, who usually do a lot of housework along with office work, get more migraines than men. When you are caught with a throbbing headache, all your physical activities come to a halt, but your mind is still restless and you know you have so much to do; it becomes an uphill battle. Medication helps, but it's still no cure. As suggested, the best way to curb migraines is to monitor your lifestyle by keeping track of your triggers, and drink sufficient water.

Jisha Louis, via e-mail

 High Street Lifestyle

Blurring the lines between couture and high street fashion is a remarkable move by the fashion industry (Couture Visits High Street, Oct 16) and it's helping them capitalise on the consumer market across various price ranges. A classic example being 'House of DVF' - Diane von Furstenberg has revolutionised the market by making and promoting designs for everyday women. Recently, I watched a movie based on the life of Donatella Versace, that showed her struggles to keep the business afloat after her brother Gianni Versace passed away, and how she decided to design clothes for comfort and the modern woman instead. Similarly, a recent documentary showed how brands like Zara take inspiration from the international fashion weeks, and send them to production in less than three weeks. And it's ideal for men and women, especially in a place like Dubai where everyone is fashion-conscious. I remember wknd. had an article on how you could rent out branded expensive gowns for a fraction of the cost in the UAE. That's another great way how couture is becoming more accessible to regular shoppers.

Aparna Jeyaraman, via e-mail

 Happy Birthday SRK!

Shah Rukh Khan - the name is synonymous with charm, charisma and boundless energy (Life Begins at 50, Oct 16). As the undisputed king of Bollywood steps into his second innings, his fans' minds must be wondering: will ringing in the fifties slow him down, or will he be able to prove that age is indeed just a number and regale his millions of fans across the globe with the same vigour, boundless energy and panache? A self-made man, SRK has carved a niche in the glamourous world of Bollywood with sheer hard work, committment and dedication. Many a time, critics have panned most of his films as commercial potboilers and for his over-the-top acting. Yet, he remains the número uno of Bollywood. His life after 50 might see a more matured King Khan, whose new releases will have style and substance and showcase his acting skills. He is sure to add many more feathers to his coveted cap.

Jayashree Kulkarni, Abu Dhabi