Post drome cravings?

I have vestibular migraines as well. Lying still in the dark room seems the only resolution to these episodes - I sympathize with you as I know this struggle. But certain cravings do help ease these horrible symptoms you describe.


Yes, yes yes on cravings. I crave salt and ginger ale to ease nausea, but also chocolate. Chips or Saltines help nausea as well, something I learned from the great nurses in my spondyloarthritis infusion center as the body is searching for electrolyte homeostasis from sodium and at times potassium (coconut milk/water). The chocolate I could do without but I give in to the craving just to satisfy the desire. Usually, I try and keep it to a minimum, but I believe it's the caffeine my body is asking for.


Was reading up on why chocolate helps, and it seems that there is theobromine and caffeine in chocolate which both assist the nervous system - "Both theobromine and caffeine belong to the methylxanthine chemical family. The uptick in energy we feel from Chocolate and coffee results from theobromine and caffeine binding to the brain’s adenosine receptors. When adenosine binds to its receptor, this sends a signal to our body to calm down. "


As for the coconut milk you crave - I've heard of this craving. But from what I understand a coconut is considered a drupe or a stone fruit - a tree nut that people can have allergies to - so some can crave it while others stay away from it due to it possibly causing migraines as a result of the allergy.


Hoping you are managing well enough and that your cravings are helping. Warmly ~ Rebecca (comm advc)

, thank you for sharing your experience and for your question. Many people have cravings during the migraine cycle. I know I crave certain things in the prodrome, but I crave different things during postdrome. I crave sweets during prodrome, and during postdrome, I crave salt and fat. Coconut water is great for rehydrating your body and is packed with electrolytes. Excellent if part of your cycle includes vomiting. I know that leaves my body stripped of electrolytes. Potassium can be a factor in headaches in general due to the vasoconstriction it can cause in blood vessels. It may be a good idea to let your doctor know about your experience during a migraine attack to get that documented. I'm glad you don't have to endure your attacks frequently. Have a great day! Warmly, Cheryl migraine.com team

Thank you for reaching out and sharing this with us. A migraine attack occurring at any time, even once a year can be so debilitating - we get it.
Cravings- oh yes! My go to is white rice with butter and salt and has been for years. I understand it's not the healthiest option, but at that point I really don't care!!
Being deficient in vitamins or the like (magnesium, vitamin D and vitamin B2 ) can make us more susceptible to migraine attacks, so it may be two fold. Do you notice this migraine occurs at the same time each year?
Let me know what you think and I'm wishing you a low pain day, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator Migraine.com Team

Another thought about coconut milk -- coconut water, at least, is a fantastic electrolyte source and can help you rehydrate more efficiently than just drinking plain water. I'm a firm believer that the body knows what it needs most! Lots of people here also crave a bit of fat after an attack, and coconut milk is rich. Thanks for a great topic! -Melissa, migraine.com team