Migraines

Life is too short to endure the pain of frequent migraine headaches. As the American Migraine Foundation states on their website, “A migraine is not just a bad headache.” Migraine is a neurological disorder commonly underdiagnosed, affecfting around 1 billion people around the world. Migraines have a devastating impact on quality of life and capacity for both work and enjoyment.

What makes a migraine a migraine?

Migraine headaches are different from your regular tension headache for a few reasons. The severe head pain of migraine headaches is typically accompanied by other symptoms. These can include vision changes, sensitivity to light, dizziness, nausea and vomiting.

A migraine starts with a prodrome, which might last a few hours up to a few days, and ends with a postdrome that lasts a day or two, sometimes called a “migraine hangover.”

How are migraines treated?

Some patients will be evaluated by a neurologist to rule out brain abnormalities that could be causing such severe symptoms. This sometimes includes imaging like an MRI or CT scan. The most common treatments for migraine are NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as naproxen or ibuprofen, as well as triptans.

However, the above treatment approach comes with downsides. Chronic, longterm use of NSAIDs is known to cause inflammation in the gut, contributing to intesteinal permeability. Frequent use of triptans (as well as NSAIDs) can cause what’s called Medication Overuse Headache. Yes, you read that right—the doctor’s recommended treatment for relieving your migraine might actually end up causing more migraine!

Treating the root cause of migraine headaches

Migraines can be triggered and worsened by a variety of root cause factors. These include dietary histamines and MCAS (mast cell activation syndrome), mold illness, chronic stress, hormonal imbalance, sleep issues, food sensitivities, and elevated levels of inflammation in the brain and body. The root cause of the migraines is unique to the specific patient and requires a personalized approach to treatment.

You don’t have to figure this out on your own

Navigating chronic health issues by yourself can feel isolating, confusing, and overwhelming. It is one of my greatest joys to support and guide individuals out of their suffering and into a bigger life and greater vitality. If you’re ready to explore a new approach to healing, click the button below to inquire about working together.