Q I am a life-long sufferer from migraine and I have to take medication constantly to prevent attacks. Can I do anything to relieve this problem?

A Migraine is a headache caused by spasm in the blood vessels which supply the brain and is a common and sometimes devastating problem for many people.

There are many factors implicated in migraine which means that there isn't really any one cause although by far and away the commonest scenarios involve stress and the intake of stimulant substances which cause blood vessels to contract.

My first advice to anyone with migraine is to stop smoking, avoid caffeine (tea, coffee, chocolate) and reduce or avoid sugar intake.

Also take a really broad look at your life and work out where you might relax more, find time to let your body heave a sigh of relief and wind down on a regular basis: life's too short not to stop and smell the roses from time to time.

Food intolerances or sensitivities have been implicated in migraine but it's hard to run elimination diets on your own - I suggest you seek the advice of a nutritionist.

Lack of magnesium and riboflavin have also been identified as potential causes of migraine. I think a diet rich in fruit and veg should suffice to obtain enough of these nutrients.

Some herbs can help with migraine particularly feverfew and also ginger and ginkgo. Homeopathy has good success with migraine as does acupuncture and occasionally spinal manipulation with a chiropractitioner.