A new Irish book, which aims to help people affected by migraine to self-manage this debilitating condition, has been launched.

Migraine is a complex neurological condition affecting over 500,000 people in Ireland. It is usually characterised by a one-sided throbbing headache that can last hours or even days.

These headaches can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, confusion and visual disturbances (known as aura).

On any given day in Ireland, over 13,000 people can be suffering from migraine and most of these are in the workforce.

Migraine - Not Just Another Headache is edited by clinical psychologist, Dr Marie Murray, in collaboration with the Migraine Association of Ireland (MAI). It covers topics such as the diagnosis of migraine, the impact of the condition, triggers and treatment.

Contributors to the book include consultant neurologist, Prof Orla Hardiman, who looks in detail at migraine triggers. It is widely acknowledged that one of the key factors when it comes to successful outcomes for people affected by migraine is a better understanding of their triggers.

Other contributors include Dr Deirdre Peak, a consultant paediatric neurologist in Belfast, who looks at the issue of migraine in children, and Dr Murray, who looks at the psychology of migraine and its impact on mental health.

The books also looks at topics such as migraine in sport and the legal entitlements and rights of migraine sufferers in the workplace.

Migraine - Not Just Another Headache can be purchased online from the MAI website here. It is also available in Easons and other independent bookstores.

For more information on migraine and the MAI, click here