What is a Migraine Headache?
A migraine headache is a recurrent headache that can be present on one side of the head or both sides.  It is commonly preceded by or associated with a variety of other symptoms including, dizziness, fatigue, weakness, mood disturbances, haloes around lights, nausea and vomiting, ringing in the ears, blind spots and sensitivity to light and sound.  The headache generally lasts from 4-72 hours.  Patients may experience a migraine anywhere from once a week to once a year.

Who gets Migraine Headaches?
Approximately 15% of the U.S. population experiences migraine headaches.  Women are three times more likely to get a migraine than men.  In childhood, boys are more likely than girls to experience this type of headache.  As patients age, it is common that the headaches become less frequent as well as less severe.  It is very uncommon to begin experiencing migraines after the age of fifty, as the first one usually comes on in childhood.  Over 80% of migraine sufferers have family members who are afflicted as well.

What Causes Migraine Headaches?
The exact cause of migraine headaches is unknown but is suspected to be related to the small blood vessels in your head.  Another theory is that it has to do with exceptional sensitivity to the neurotransmitters, (chemicals that tell your cells what to do), dopamine and serotonin in the blood vessels of the brain.  There are several known “triggers” of migraine headaches.  These include certain foods (chocolate, wine, alcohol, cheese, nuts and MSG), missing a meal, stress, tension, emotional stress, birth control pills (due to estrogen withdrawal).

When is it More Than A Migraine?
Immediate medical attention should be sought if any of the following signs are present.  If the headache is worse, lasts longer or different than the usual symptoms, if coughing, sneezing or bearing down causes the headache, if it is accompanied by severe, unintentional weight loss, if weakness or paralysis lasts after the headache has dissipated, if the headache lasts more than 72 hours, if it is associated with a fever or
neck rigidity or loss of consciousness or if it is preceded by head trauma seek immediate medical attention!

When Should I Seek Treatment?
Headaches are never normal!  Pain is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong.  If your headache is causing you to miss work and lose pay, if it is preventing you from playing with your kids, if it is disrupting your life in any way, it is time to do something about it!  Don’t rely on drugs to cover the symptoms, fix the cause.

How Can I Treat My Migraine?
Migraines can be avoided or reduced in frequency by avoiding known triggers, by maintaining a regular meal schedule, using relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and yoga and by getting enough sleep.  Feverfew, an herb, has been shown effective in clinical trials for preventing headaches.  Chiropractic care and acupuncture have had great results with reducing or eliminating migraine headaches.  As always, consult with a health care professional before starting or changing any treatment.  For more information, other suggestions, or questions feel free to contact Dr. Michael or Dr. Kristen at U.P. Health.