What causes migraines?
Several factors can cause migraines. Some migraines are linked to changes in the brainstem and various interactions with the major pain pathway (the trigeminal nerve).
Serotonin is an important pain-regulating brain chemical that might play a role. Certain imbalances in serotonin levels are associated with migraines and mood disorders.
When a migraine attack happens, serotonin levels are typically reduced. This can stimulate the trigeminal nerve to secrete certain neuropeptides that can move toward your brain’s outer covering and result in head pain.
Research on what causes migraines is still underway. One focus of the research is on the calcitonin gene-related peptide (neurotransmitter).
What are migraine triggers?
Some factors can trigger a migraine, such as:
- Stress
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Physical exertion (such as sexual activity)
- Medication
- Hormonal changes
- Certain foods or food additives
- Alcoholic beverages
Environmental and seasonal changes might also be involved in starting a migraine.
What are the symptoms of migraines?
In addition to head pain, migraines can come with other symptoms, such as vomiting, nausea, swollen temples, fatigue, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound.
Migraine pain can be disabling and severe for some people. If your migraines are negatively affecting your quality of life and cognitive functioning or causing other problems, visit Payam Vahedifar, M.D. Nuvo Spine and Sports Institute & Ortho Regenerative Center for high-quality care.
What are the treatments for migraines?
Payam Vahedifar, M.D. Nuvo Spine and Sports Institute & Ortho Regenerative Center offers a number of treatments for migraines, such as:
- A2M (Alpha 2 Macroglobulin) injections
- Neurostimulation
- Biological therapy
- Intrathecal pump
- Spinal cord stimulation
- Nerve blocks
- Radiofrequency ablation
- Traumeel® injections and Zeel® injections
- Healthy lifestyle changes, such as nutrition, stress management, and exercise
Your physician takes time to determine the best ways to relieve your migraine pain and prevent future migraines.
If necessary, your physician can prescribe medications, such as anti-inflammatories. Muscle relaxers can be used sparingly to relax muscle tension if that’s what’s causing your migraine.
If inflammation and nutrient deficiencies are playing a role, anti-inflammatories, nutritional supplements, and lifestyle changes might be helpful.
At Payam Vahedifar, M.D. Nuvo Spine and Sports Institute & Ortho Regenerative Center, you can receive a personalized treatment plan to help you find relief from your painful migraines.
Use the online scheduling system or call Payam Vahedifar, M.D. Nuvo Spine and Sports Institute & Ortho Regenerative Center.
