Migraine

Migraine is a chronic neurological disorder characterised by episodic attacks of head pain and associated symptoms. About 2 million Australians suffer from migraine, close to 10 per cent of the total population (1). Migraine pain commonly presents on one side of the head and is described as a throbbing headache that is of moderate to severe intensity.

Signs and symptoms of Migraine headache:

• Headaches that lasts from 4 to 72 hours
• Unilateral or bilateral headache that is usually worsened by physical activity
• A headache that impairs daily activities such as going to work or school
• Visual disturbances (such as flashing lights, blind spots in vision, zig-zag patterns)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sensitivity to light  
• Sensitivity to noise
• Sensitivity to smells
• Tingling/pins and needles/weakness/numbness in the limbs

What causes Migraine?

Although much about the cause of migraines isn’t understood, genetics and environmental factors appear to play a role. It was originally thought that the aura was purely due to the vasoconstriction of cerebral blood vessels. However, the process is now known to involve a specific neurological phenomenon called ‘cortical spreading depression.  In cortical spreading depression, electrical activity is reduced over an area of the cortex (grey matter) of the brain. This results in the release of specific cells, which then irritate nerves in the brain stem, causing the Migraine.

Triggers of Migraine:

Migraine also has many characteristic triggers. It may be viewed as the interaction of environmental triggers and a susceptible host. Migraine triggers can include:

• Stress
• Fatigue
• Alcohol
• Dietary
• Factor
• Weather changes
• Hormone Change’s
• Alterations to sleeping habits
• Loud noises
• Head trauma

How can we help?

At In Good Hands Chiropractic, we understand the concepts of migraine and headaches – so come and see our highly skilled Chiropractors so we can assess and diagnose the source of your pain, and address any other pain mechanisms that may be contributing to your condition.

Successful treatment of Migraine depends on early intervention. Give us a call at 0406230393 or book online

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Reference:

1 Headache Australia – Headache Types. Copyright 2014. http://headacheaustralia.org.au/headache-types/17- migraine-a-common-and-distressing disorder.Accessed March 2015