An Introduction to the Causes of Migraines

Migraines affect approximately one in six people across the country and are defined essentially as a headache that prevents you from carrying on your day-to-day life. In general, women are more susceptible to migraines. It's also believed that migraines are genetic and may run in the family.

While the exact cause of migraines is unknown, it's believed to start when serotonin is released into the bloodstream. But, what triggers that serotonin release? Some experts chalk it up to stress, others to poor diet and still others to everything from environmental stimulants to hormones.

Diagnosing a Migraine

The most obvious symptom of a migraine is the throbbing and almost unbearable pain behind your eyes. Most migraine sufferers complain that they're extra sensitive to light, smell and various sounds - often wishing they could escape to a dark and quiet room. Some migraine suffers complain of nausea and vomiting as well.

Treating Migraines

The most common migraine headache treatment is an acetaminophen which is administered after the headache has occurred. Other drugs used include triptans or ergotamines.

However, using drugs to dull the symptoms of a migraine is not a truly beneficial treatment. Instead, sufferers should focus on identifying the cause of their migraines and preventing them from occurring.

The most common preventive method is to eliminate foods that may trigger migraines like caffeine (in any form), alcohol, nitrites, coffee and cheeses. In addition to eliminating these foods, you should also focus on increasing your magnesium aspartate and Vitamin B levels.

The next most effective method of reducing the instance of migraines is by reducing daily stress levels. Try to exercise every day and engage in relaxation or meditation breathing. You could sign up for a Yoga class or simply relax each day to a meditative tape.

Butterbur

When taken twice a day over a period of time, Butterbur root has been proven to be effective in preventing migraines. However, because certain kinds of butterbur root can be toxic to the kidneys and liver, you should look for a variety that's approved for long-term use. Common side effects of butterbur include itchy or dry eyes, diarrhea and nausea.

Feverfew

Feverfew is traditionally used to heal colds, coughs, fever and dyspepsia. However, the active constituents in feverfew are anti-inflammatory and they also promote melatonin, which helps the body rejuvenate.

Because of this, feverfew can help reduce the instance of migraines and is an effective migraine headache treatment. Though rare, feverfew can cause mouth ulcers and indigestion.

As all who suffer migraine headaches are acutely aware, the intense pain can be crippling when it occurs - and the need for relief becomes paramount. No conventional or alternative treatment will produce the same positive results for everyone. However, for those who routinely seek relief, the effort to find a helpful solution is well worth it when one actually works.