Migraine headaches
What is a migraine?
Migraines usually involve periodic attacks of vascular headaches on one or both sides of the head. These may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, increased sensitivity of the eyes to light (photophobia), increased sensitivity to sound (phonophobia), dizziness , blurred vision and cognitive disturbances. Migraines are significantly more common in women than in men.
What causes a migraine?
These symptoms may be triggered by musculo-skeletal tension, food sensitivity, stress and hormonal imbalance. Typically for women the condition begins at puberty and finishes during menopause. Migraines may be worse around the two days before and the first two days of menstruation as this can cause spasms in the blood vessels at the base of the neck leading to severe headaches. Low adrenal and/or thyroid function can also be a contributing factor and certain foods that are high in tyramines, sulphites and nitrates can be problematic.
Treatment
An integrated approach could use acupuncture, medication, physical therapy, diet, herbal medicine and lifestyle review, depending upon the requirements of the individual.
