Migraines are some of the most common illnesses in the world, affecting around 12% of the population. In the United States, migraines strike approximately 38 million men, women and children each year, yet they are still one of the least understood and most poorly treated medical disorders. A migraine headache is characterized as an intense throbbing or pulsing headache, typically in one area or side of your head, and is commonly accompanied by nausea, vomiting and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. If you suffer from migraines, you’re very familiar with this definition. Migraine attacks can cause debilitating pain for several hours to several days, depending on severity.
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So what causes a migraine? Hypotheses vary. Some studies show those who get migraines have a different blood vessel structure in their brains compared to those who do not. Other research suggests that the searing, throbbing pain of a migraine may be due to overactive pain signaling from sensory neurons in the brain. Other theories include changes in serotonin levels and vitamin B deficiency.
Environmental factors can play a significant role in triggering a migraine attack. Commonly reported triggers include:
• Food and drink — Wheat, dairy, sugar, artificial preservatives or chemical additives, cured or processed meats, alcohol, aspartame, caffeine and MSG may lead to migraines
• Changes in sleeping cycle — Lack of sleep and oversleeping can both trigger a migraine
• Hormones — Migraines may occur before or during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause
• Allergies — These can include food allergies, food sensitivities and chemical sensitivities
• Stress — Any kind of emotional trauma can trigger a migraine, even after the stress has passed
• External stimuli — Bright lights, fluorescent lights, loud noises and strong smells can trigger a migraine
• Dehydration and/or hunger — Skipping meals or fasting are also common triggers
• Physical exertion — Extremely intense exercise can bring on migraines
• Weather changes — Changes in weather and/or altitude can trigger a migraine
If you suffer from migraines, your primary concerns are likely prevention and treatment. Preventing migraines begins by avoiding the triggers. Most often, this means eating healthy, whole foods and avoiding processed ones, and effectively managing your stress levels. Avoiding wheat, grains, sugar and all fluids but water may prove to be particularly effective for migraine prevention. Should a migraine strike and you need immediate relief, try one or more of the following:
- Stimulate your body’s natural painkilling ability by putting pressure on a nerve just under your eyebrow and causing your pituitary gland to release painkilling endorphins immediately.
- Take anywhere from one-half to 3 teaspoons of cayenne pepper in an 8-ounce glass of water. Endorphins are released by our brain when the cayenne hits your stomach lining.
- Alternate hot and cold compresses on your forehead and/or behind your neck.
- Massage your ears, ear lobes and the crown of your head — the ring of muscles that circle your head where a crown would sit.
- Try Emotional Freedom Techniques to help find relief.