Even though young adults are typically more prone to migraines, these serious headaches can still affect those in their senior years. Because elderly people are more susceptible to certain health conditions, the list of potential causes for their migraines may be even longer, making them difficult to pinpoint in each instance. Here are a few of these causes as well as a discussion of a related condition known as hypnic headaches.
Encephalitis
This condition is caused by a viral infection that inflames the brain and causes severe headaches. Seniors with compromised immune systems are more susceptible to encephalitis. In addition to migraines, many seniors with this condition experience seizures, weakness, and unusual changes in their personalities. Treating the viral infection almost always requires taking medication while being monitored by medical professionals.
Managing pain from migraines can be especially difficult for aging adults who are living with other health conditions. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality elderly home care. Trust Home Care Assistance to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.
Blood Clots
Every year, more than 800,000 adults in the United States experience strokes. According to a 2009 study published by the CDC, 10 percent of males and 22 percent of females experience severe migraines in the days leading up to their strokes. Both strokes and migraines can result from blood clots working their way through the bloodstream. Most strokes can be prevented with a few lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet and regular exercise.
If your loved one needs assistance with preparing meals or exercising, a professional caregiver can be a fantastic asset. Richmond senior care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.
Dehydration
It’s common for seniors to take multiple medications, some of which can result in severe dehydration. Over time, dehydration can cause a wide variety of medical conditions, including acute migraines. Seniors and their caregivers should keep an eye out for additional signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, confusion, and ongoing infections. When taking medication, your loved one might need to drink up to 20 cups of water per day.
Hypnic Headaches
This relatively rare disorder is similar to migraines and affects adults between the ages of 40 and 80. Unlike other headaches, hypnic headaches only take place when seniors are sleeping and will wake them up for anywhere from 15 minutes to 3 hours. Most hypnic headaches are the result of sleep apnea, drug withdrawal, or other secondary medical problems. While there’s currently no cure, caffeine tablets, lithium, and melatonin have all proven to be helpful in alleviating the symptoms.
Frequent or severe migraines can be debilitating for some aging adults. Living with serious health conditions can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Richmond seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more. Call Home Care Assistance at (804) 207-4746 to learn more about our flexible and customizable senior care plans.