SolveYourProblem Article Series: Headache Causes, Treatments & Relief
Help, My Headache Is Killing Me!

Migraine Headache Causes & Triggers

The discussion of the cause and treatment of migraines is not a simple matter. Although it is generally understood that the excessive dilation or the excessive contracting of blood vessels can result in a migraine - the reason this occurs is not clearly known.

One area that scientific research has focused on is the trigeminal nerve system. This is a sensory nerve that has three major branches that controls sensory input from the face and has some control over certain motor functions such as chewing and swallowing. Sometimes the body can experience a chemical imbalance. One of these chemicals - serotonin - acts as a regulator for pain input that travels through these nerve pathways.

Research indicates that when someone is experiencing a headache the serotonin levels will drop. In response the body releases neuropeptides. These cause blood vessels in the meninges - which refers to the brain's outer covering - to become inflamed and dilated. This results in further headache pain.

Though this helps to explain a possible scenario it may not always be the definitive answer as to what may be causing an individual's migraine. What seems to be a little more clearer is that there is a number of known 'triggers' that can set off a sequence of events that can lead to a migraine.

One important area in that regard is certain food sensitivities or allergies. Someone suffering from frequent headaches may be reacting to such foods as chocolate, wheat, MSG, sulfites used as preservatives, nuts, dairy foods, alcohol or specifically red wine. Add to this fermented or pickled food, and aged food such as certain cheeses. Keep in mind that even the absence of food can trigger a headache brought on by a low sugar imbalance. And though it is not a 'food' per se it is good to monitor anything that you may take in - such as medications - as some could have the particular side effect of giving you a headache.

Another factor is hormonal imbalances. Women often experience bad headaches around the time of their periods which doctors feel corresponds to a drop in estrogen. Headaches have also been connected to hormone replacement therapy, the taking of contraceptives and the menopausal phase which are all manifest changes in a body's hormonal balance.

Stress can be one of the aspects, that although we may connect to tension headaches, may also be a trigger for a migraine in some individuals. And people who are perhaps more susceptible to bad headaches may find that strong smells, light that is too bright or sounds that jar can influence a reaction.

Physical activity that can elevate the blood pressure could play a role. As well, outside changes in altitude or barometric pressure that comes from weather and seasonal aspects could contribute.

There is no doubt that there are any number of triggers that may exist and that these will undoubtedly be different for each person. If you're searching for the answer on your own or with the care of a professional there will be a wide range of factors to look at. It will be vital to pay attention to even the smallest detail as your daily routine and your environment may hold the key to finding relief.

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SolveYourProblem.com : 2009

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