Information About Migraines

What is a migraine?

A migraine is a chronic headache that can cause a person significant pain, lasting anywhere from 4 to 72 hours. Migraines typically begin in a person’s childhood, adolescence or early adulthood. According to Medicinenet.com, migraines affect 28 million Americans. Despite this large number, migraines are still largely under-diagnosed and undertreated. Females tend to suffer more from migraines than males, with 17% of the female population experiencing migraines, compared to just 6% of the male population.

Click on the link below to see a video about migraine auras from Mayoclinic.org.

Video: Migraine aura


What are the symptoms of a migraine?

Although symptoms vary, a typical migraine can involve the following symptoms:

• Moderate to severe pain in one or both sides of the head
• Pulsating or throbbing head pain
• Pain that worsens with physical activity and interferes with daily activities
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Chills
• Increased urination
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Sweating

Some people who suffer from migraines may experience auras or other forms of premonition signaling that a migraine is coming. Auras can include changes in vision such as seeing flashes of light to feeling pins and needles in your limbs.

According to mayoclinic.com other signals can include:

• feelings of elation and intense energy
• cravings for sweets
• thirst
• drowsiness
• irritability or depression


What causes a migraine?

Although much is still unknown about the causes of migraines, genetics and environmental stimulants are thought to play major roles in the cause.

Changes in brain chemicals can lead to imbalances of serotonin, a chemical that helps regulate pain in your nervous system. This imbalance can then trigger the release of neuropeptides, which can cause the pain suffered during a migraine.

Other factors may trigger migraines. These factors include:

• Hormonal changes in women – related to the menstrual cycle or the use of birth control pills
• Certain foods – alcohol, aged cheeses, chocolate, caffeine, salty foods, processed foods. Skipping meals or fasting can also lead to migraines.
• Stress
• Sensory stimuli – bright lights, sun glare, loud sounds, unusual smells.
• Changes in sleeping patterns – getting too little or too much sleep
• Physical exertion
• Changes in weather or barometric pressure
• Certain medications


What factors may increase my risk for migraines?

A person’s chance of having migraines increases if they have any of the following:

• Family history of migraines
• Age younger than 40 – most people begin to experience severe headaches before the age of 20, with migraines being most common in people ages 30 to 39 years old
• Being female – women are 3 times more likely to suffer from migraines than men.
• Hormonal changes – related to menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause


What can I do to lower my risk of migraines?

In addition to taking preventive medicines, changes in lifestyle can help to combat migraines. These changes include:

• Avoiding triggers – foods, odors or activities that have caused you headaches in the past
• Exercise regularly
• Reduce effects of estrogen – avoid or reduce medications that contain estrogen including birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy
• Keep a regular pattern of sleep
• Do not skip meals
• Limit caffeine intake


What are the treatments for migraines?

Treatments for migraines can include the use of medications, muscle relaxation exercises, getting rest and relaxation, acupuncture, massage, vitamins and minerals

Dr. Larry Blankenship and Dr. Christopher Rocco conduct neurological clinical trials at Community Clinical Research Center (CCRC) in Anderson, including those that study new treatments for migraines.

The benefits of participating in a clinical trial can include:

• Big city medicine in a small town environment.
• Access to new research treatments before they are widely available
• Study-related medication at no cost.
• Access to leading, world-class physician care
• Qualified participants will be compensated for time and travel

For more information on clinical trials, contact CCRC at 765-298-2040.