Afflicting millions of Americans, most commonly women, migraines are intense headaches producing significant pain that can last for hours or even days. Also known as vascular headaches, they usually are accompanied by an aural sensation, followed by blind spots with flashing lights. The precise source of these headaches is yet to be determined.
Causes and Onset
Although the exact cause of migraine headaches is yet unknown, some triggering factors are believed to play a critical role in the cause of these headaches. According to the Mayo Clinic, migraines are believed to be associated with imbalances in the production of serotonin. Serotonin, an impending vasoconstrictor and neurotransmitter, helps to regulate pain sensation throughout the central nervous system. During a migraine headache, serotonin levels in the brain decrease, leading to the release of neuropeptides, which trigger headache pain. Pain generally initiates as a throbbing sensation that intensifies to an intense gripping pain that spreads across the entire head. Some cases may present warning signs of onset such as increased irritation to lights and sound, tingling, nausea and vomiting.
Vascular Association
Vasodilation, or enlargement of the blood vessels, is a common cause of migraine headaches. During this vascular enlargement, small nerve fibers that surround the blood vessels to the brain become stretched. This stress and tension placed on the nerves results in pain, inflammation, muscle spasm and further increased vasodilation. With the body's natural fight-or-flight response, blood circulation is reduced. This often leads to coldness of the hands and feet, and facial paleness when the headache is present.
Triggering Factors
"Prescription for Natural Healing" claims a wide variety of issues may trigger the onset of migraine headaches. Allergies, constipation, stress, and barometric pressure changes, to name a few, have all shown to be the triggering factor for migraine pain. No absolute initiating factor has yet been discovered.
Medical Treatment
With no definite cure known for migraine headaches, the primary medical approach is to reduce the frequency and severity of these headaches. There is a wide variety of prescription medications designed for migraine treatment. Falling into two categories, they are pain-relieving medications, designed to alleviate the existing symptoms, and preventive medications, which are taken on a daily basis to prevent frequent occurrence and lessen the severity of attacks. Consult your physician to determine the best approach for your personal needs. The risks of taking these medications while pregnant or breast feeding must also be considered.
Alternative Treatments
According to WebMd, alternative approaches for treating migraine headaches exist, and have proved to be effective. A few of these nontraditional approaches include acupuncture, massage of the head and neck, chiropractic manipulation of the cervical spine, and vitamin, herbs, and mineral supplementation. As with the prescribed medical approach, it is also important to consult your physician prior to taking natural supplements.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Migraine
- WebMD: Alternative Treatments for Migraines and Headaches
- "Prescription for Natural Healing."; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; James F. Balch, MD; 2000
