What Causes Migraines?
The exact causes of migraines are unknown, although they are
related to changes in the brain as well as to genetic causes. People with migraines
may inherit the tendency to be affected by certain migraine triggers, such as
fatigue, bright lights, weather changes, and others.
For many years, scientists
believed that migraines were linked to expanding and constricting blood vessels
on the brain's surface. However, it is now believed that migraines are caused
by inherited abnormalities in certain areas of the brain.
There is a migraine "pain
center" or generator in the brain. A migraine begins when hyperactive
nerve cells send out impulses to the blood vessels, causing them to clamp down
or constrict, followed by dilation (expanding) and the release of
prostaglandins, serotonin, and other inflammatory substances that cause the
pulsation to be painful.
What Triggers a Migraine?
Many migraines seem to be
triggered by external factors. Possible triggers include:
·
Emotional stress. This is one of the most common
triggers of migraine headache. Migraine sufferers are generally highly affected
by stressful events. During stressful events, certain chemicals in the brain
are released to combat the situation (known as the "flight or fight"
response). The release of these chemicals can provoke vascular changes that can
cause a migraine. Repressed emotions surrounding stress, such as anxiety, worry,
excitement, and fatigue can increase muscle tension and dilated blood vessels
can intensify the severity of the migraine.
·
Sensitivity to specific chemicals and preservatives
in foods. Certain foods and beverages, such as aged cheese,
alcoholic beverages, and food additives such as nitrates (in pepperoni, hot
dogs, luncheon meats) and monosodium glutamate (MSG, commonly found in Chinese
food) may be responsible for triggering up to 30% of migraines.
·
Caffeine. Excessive caffeine consumption or
withdrawal from caffeine can cause headaches when the caffeine level abruptly
drops. The blood vessels seem to become sensitized to caffeine, and when
caffeine is not ingested, a headache may occur. Caffeine itself is often
helpful in treating acute migraine attacks.
·
Changing weather conditions. Storm fronts, changes in
barometric pressure, strong winds, or changes in altitude can all trigger a
migraine.
·
Menstrual periods
·
Excessive fatigue
·
Skipping meals
·
Changes in normal sleep pattern
A few people have assumed that myotherapy
massage would not be able to do much in aliviating migraines or very strong
headaches, but it is actually the complete opposite. Massage can DEFINITELY aid
in the reduction or rid of a migraine. By releasing the sub occipital muscles
below the scull and treating all muscles of the neck and back (scalenes,
levator scapularis, sternocliedomastoid, splenus capitus, trapezuis,
supraspinatus, rhomboids and sub scapularis). Relieving all tension at the base
of the scull which can cause tension headaches. Let alone massage relieving
stress, aiding in relaxation, increasing circulation and stretching of the
muscles. For the last month I have treated clients who are prone to headaches
and migraines every week sometimes everyday and have been suffering with the
pain for years for them to have the pain relieved or even gone after an hour,
they have never been happier! And nor have I!
