Suffering From Headaches? Learn All About Migraines Here!

Do you experience debilitating headaches that interfere with your daily life? You might be suffering from migraines. Migraines are a complex neurological disorder characterized by moderate to severe headaches. They can cause a variety of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.

While the exact cause of migraines is unknown, there are many factors that can trigger them, including stress, hormonal changes, and certain foods. If you think you might have migraines, it's important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Here at Marks Chiropractic, our experienced chiropractors can help manage your migraines and improve your quality of life.

In this blog post, we'll discuss:

• What are migraines?

• Symptoms of migraines

• Common migraine triggers

• How chiropractic care can help manage migraines

• Risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment options

What Are Migraines?

Migraines are a neurological disorder that cause moderate to severe headaches. They can be debilitating and interfere with your daily activities. There are two main types of migraines:

• Migraine without aura: This is the most common type of migraine. It causes a headache without any other warning signs.

• Migraine with aura: This type of migraine is preceded by an aura, which is a temporary disturbance in vision, sensation, or speech. If a sudden, new onset headache develops with changes in vision or speech (in addition to or in the absence of other symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, etc) be sure to have it evaluated immediately to rule out a potential stroke.

Symptoms of Migraines

The symptoms of migraines can vary from person to person, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Throbbing or pulsating headache, usually on one side of the head

• Nausea or vomiting

• Sensitivity to light and sound

• Dizziness

• Vision problems

• Fatigue

• Irritability
  

How Chiropractic Care Can Help Manage Migraines

Several studies have shown that chiropractic care can be an effective treatment for migraines. Chiropractic care can help to:

• Reduce pain and inflammation

• Improve posture

• Improve range of motion in the neck and upper back

• Reduce stress levels

If you are suffering from migraines, chiropractic care may be a helpful treatment option for you. At Marks Chiropractic in Marathon, our chiropractors will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to help you manage your migraines and improve your overall health. This can range from treatment in our office alone to co-management with other providers as needed. In rare cases when concerning symptoms are present imaging may be required to rule out more severe conditions, but a detailed clinical history and thorough physical evaluation will determine need.

Our detailed diagnostic exam will help us determine the underlying cause of your migraines and develop the most effective treatment plan.

Don't let migraines control your life. Contact Marks Chiropractic today to schedule an appointment!

In addition to the information above, this blog post also includes information on:

• Risk factors for migraines
  

• Diagnosis of migraines

• Treatment options for migraines, including medications, lifestyle changes, and other therapies

Risk Factors for Migraines

While the exact cause of migraines remains a mystery, several factors can increase your likelihood of experiencing them. Here's a breakdown of some key risk factors:

• Genetics: Having a close relative with migraines significantly raises your own risk. If one parent has migraines, your chance is around 50%. If both parents have them, the risk climbs to 75%.

• Weight: Overweight and obese individuals are more susceptible to migraines.

• Cardiovascular health: Poor cardiovascular health, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and impaired insulin sensitivity, is linked to an increased risk of migraines.

• Medication overuse:  Overusing pain relievers like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and even medications specifically designed for migraines can lead to a condition called "rebound headaches" which can become chronic migraines.

• Hormonal fluctuations:  Migraines are more common in women, particularly around menstruation and ovulation due to hormonal changes.

• Vitamin deficiencies: Low levels of vitamin D and magnesium have been associated with an increased risk of migraine attacks.

• Sleep problems:  Both insufficient and excessive sleep can trigger migraines in some people.

• Stress: Stress is a major trigger for many migraine sufferers.

• Sensory sensitivities: Bright lights, strong smells, loud noises, and certain foods can trigger migraines in some individuals.

• Cervical spine issues: Upper cervical tension or mobility issues in the neck joints (cervicogenic headache) may be a trigger for some migraines.
  

If you experience migraines, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan. They can help you identify your triggers and develop strategies to manage them.

Diagnosing Migraines

Migraines can be a real pain, but fortunately, a proper diagnosis is the first step to finding relief. Unlike some conditions where fancy tests are needed, diagnosing migraines often relies heavily on understanding your experience. Here's what you can expect:

• Detailed History: Your doctor will ask you a series of questions about your headaches, including frequency, duration, location, intensity, and accompanying symptoms like nausea or sensitivity to light. They'll also explore your lifestyle habits, diet, and family history of migraines.

• Physical and Neurological Exam: A physical exam will check for signs of other conditions that might mimic migraines. A neurological exam may assess reflexes, vision, and coordination to rule out any underlying neurological issues.

• Imaging Tests (Not Always Needed): In most cases, imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans aren't necessary for diagnosing migraines. However, your doctor might order them if they suspect a different underlying condition or if your headaches present with unusual or concerning characteristics.

Here are some diagnostic criteria used by healthcare professionals:

• International Headache Society Guidelines: These guidelines outline specific criteria for diagnosing migraines, including headache characteristics, duration, and associated symptoms.

• Red Flags:  Doctors watch out for "red flags" that might indicate a more serious condition masquerading as migraines. These include sudden onset of severe headaches, headaches that worsen over time, headaches after a head injury, or headaches accompanied by fever, confusion, or weakness. The worst headache of your life accompanied by neck pain (with both symptoms all on one side) of sudden onset is of particular concern, especially after trauma to the neck.

It's important to note that not everyone experiences migraines exactly according to the textbook definition. Some people might have migraines without all the classic symptoms.  An experienced healthcare professional will consider your individual experience to arrive at the most accurate diagnosis.

By working together with your doctor and openly discussing your symptoms, you can unlock the door to effective migraine management.

Exploring Treatment Options

Migraines can disrupt your life, but there's hope! Here's a look at various treatment options to combat those throbbing headaches:

Medications:

• Acute Medications: These aim to stop an ongoing migraine attack as it begins or shortly afterwards

• Preventive Medications: If you experience frequent migraines, preventive medications can help reduce their frequency and severity.  

Lifestyle Changes:

• Trigger Identification and Avoidance:  Identifying and avoiding your personal migraine triggers is a powerful strategy. Triggers can be anything from stress and lack of sleep to certain foods and strong smells. Keeping a headache diary can help you pinpoint your triggers.

• Stress Management: Stress is a major migraine trigger. Relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can be helpful.

• Healthy Sleep Habits: Aim for a consistent sleep schedule with 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night.

• Dietary Changes: Some people find that certain foods or drinks trigger their migraines. Consider eliminating common triggers like chocolate, aged cheeses, and red wine while exploring a migraine-friendly diet.

• Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being, potentially reducing migraine frequency.

• Hydration: Dehydration can contribute to headaches. Ensure you drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.

Other Therapies:

• Chiropractic Care:  Studies suggest chiropractic adjustments can help manage migraines by improving posture, reducing neck pain, and potentially addressing restrictions in the spine that might contribute to migraines.

• Acupuncture: Acupuncture may offer some relief for migraine sufferers. While the exact mechanism isn't fully understood, it's thought to stimulate the body's natural pain-relieving mechanisms.

• Massage Therapy: Massage therapy can help ease muscle tension in the head and neck, which may contribute to migraines.

Remember, the best treatment approach is often a combination of these strategies.  Discuss your options with a healthcare professional to create a personalized plan that works best for you. By taking a multi-pronged approach, you can gain control over your migraines and reclaim your life.

By understanding migraines and the treatment options available, you can take control of your health and live a migraine-free life! If in the Wausau, Wisconsin area feel free to reach out to our office for evaluation as needed. If outside of our area we are happy to assist you in finding an excellent provider near you!

Please note that this blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.