The Possible Causes Of Migraines



Migraines are headaches that are severe and recurring. Migraines can occur on a monthly basis, or they can occur one or two times a year. People with migraines can be extremely sensitive to noise and bright lights, and they can experience nausea and vomiting. Because of the severity of the pain, migraines can disable most people who are having it. Migraines can literally prevent a person from being able to perform his usual daily routine.

Migraines remain a mystery in the medical field. It is still not known what exactly causes migraines. However, over the years, researchers and scientists have formed a number of theories on the possible causes of migraines.

Many researchers think that a chemical imbalance can be what causes migraines. The brain has a complex nerve system. The brain also has chemicals, referred to as neurotransmitters, which are responsible for emotions and pain perception.

One such neurotransmitter is serotonin. Scientists have discovered that during a headache, there is a drop in serotonin. This drop causes the brain's trigeminal nerve to release neuropeptides. The neuropeptides are chemicals that cause the blood vessels located on the outside covering of the brain to dilate. The pressure then results to a headache. Basically, scientists think that this is the process that leads up to a headache.

There are certain things that can trigger migraine headaches:

* food such as chocolate, alcohol, cheese, caffeine, monosodium glutamate (MSG) and processes foods

* missing a meal

* intense physical activities such as exercising and sex

* poor sleep or too much sleep

* stress

* environmental changes such as temperature changes, weather conditions, changes in barometric pressure

* traveling that involves time zone changes

* hypersensitivity to sensory stimulus like bright lights and certain odors.

* hormonal changes in women such as menstruation and menopause; migraines often occur prior to or during menstruation

* certain drugs

If your migraine headaches are frequent, it is best if you can identify the things that trigger them. One way you can do this is to begin a diary. Write down the foods you eat or anything you do that you do not usually do on a daily basis. If you experience a migraine, leaf through your diary and see what could have possibly triggered your migraine. It is also best to go to your doctor to seek treatment for your migraine. Your doctor will be able to properly diagnose your condition and prescribe the appropriate medications and other course of treatment.