migraine headaches Archives - Amazing Health Advances

5 Common Questions about Migraines

The AHA! Team — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 05:22:30 +0000

Morgan deBlecourt via Duke Health – Migraines are more than just bad headaches, and they’re more common than most people think. Here, Timothy Collins, MD, a headache specialist at Duke, answers five common questions about migraines. 1. What Is a Migraine? Migraines are a moderate to severe throbbing pain in the head (usually on one side, but sometimes both), that often includes nausea, dizziness, facial tingling or numbness, visual disturbances, or sensitivity to light, sound, or smell. They can happen as often as several days per week. Each person may have their own combination of symptoms, and they can change from one migraine to the next. 2. What Causes Migraines? While no one knows for sure why migraines happen, newer treatments target a specific protein that appears to contribute to migraines. Migraines are much more common in women, which suggests that hormones like estrogen may play a role. A genetic link may also increase your risk, as migraines appear to run in families. Researchers continue to search for the root cause of migraines. 3. Will Migraines Get Better Over Time? The good news is that most people with migraines have fewer headaches as they get older. But this is not guaranteed, which is why your doctor will likely recommend treatment now rather than wait. 4. Are Migraines Damaging My Brain? No. Migraine headaches do not cause any damage to your brain or head, even when they are severe. 5. What’s the Best Treatment for Migraines? Fortunately, there are many medications available for headache treatment. But while every medication is right for someone, that someone might not be you. Your doctor may have you try several different medications to find the right one. Although there is no definitive test for migraine, neurologists and headache specialists can help sort through your headache symptoms, severity, frequency, and other characteristics to determine whether migraine is the right diagnosis and to recommend a treatment plan. Dr. Collins is a neurologist and headache specialist with more than more than 25 years of experience treating migraines and other headache disorders. To read the original article click here.

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Fewer Migraines From More Fish Oil and Less Vegetable Oil, Study Reveals

AHA Publisher — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 07:00:02 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – If you are one of the millions of Americans who suffer from migraine headaches, you know that the pain can be relentless – persisting for hours and even days. Unfortunately, these disabling headaches are far from rare. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), research from 2018 showed that over 15 percent of all American adults reported having a migraine within the past three months. While Western medicine attempts to address migraines with pharmaceutical drugs – including addictive opioids and toxic NSAID medications – new research published in the medical journal The BMJ shows a simple dietary intervention may reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. To discover how “tweaking” your diet may help tame migraine headaches, read on. Ladies, Beware: Women Suffer Migraine Headaches Twice as Often as Men Do Migraine headaches are usually characterized by throbbing, pulsing pain, limited to only one side of the head. In addition, nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound can occur, along with visual disturbances such as flashes of light and blind spots. Migraines can last anywhere from 4 to 72 hours and can strike at unpredictable intervals. Some patients report rare, isolated attacks, while others suffer multiple headaches a month. Studies show that women are almost twice as likely to experience migraines than men, disproportionately affecting younger women. In fact, one of the benefits of senior citizenship is that the frequency of migraines seems to take a nosedive as we age. According to the CDC, one-fourth of women between 18 and 44 reported a severe headache within three months – a rate that plummets to only 7.6 percent of women aged 75 and over. Older men also fared better than younger, with 12.3 percent of men 18 to 44 reporting headaches, compared to a mere 4 percent in men 75 and older. Still, despite the measure of relief some patients gain in their “golden years,” migraine headaches remain a painful ordeal for many. “Double-Edged Sword” – Balance of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Affects Pain and Inflammation The research investigated the effects of two types of polyunsaturated fatty acids – omega-3s, found in cold-water fish in the form of EPA and DHA – and omega-6s, found in vegetable oils, nuts and seeds. Omega-3s are believed to be strongly anti-inflammatory, while omega-6s can be pro-inflammatory. Does this mean that omega-6 fatty acids are “bad?” Not necessarily. After all, a certain amount of inflammation is needed by the body to fight injury and infection. But, dietary intake of the two fats must be balanced, with most natural health experts advising an “omega-3 to omega-6 ratio” of 1:4. Unfortunately, the Standard American Diet (aptly abbreviated as SAD!) tends to be top-heavy with omega-6 oils (thanks to soybean oil in many commercial foods) while potentially low in omega-3s. The effect of this unhealthy way of eating? Systemic chronic inflammation – which not only can trigger migraines but lies at the root of many degenerative diseases. The new study showcases the benefits of properly balancing this pair of essential fatty acids. BIG NEWS: Research Highlights Hope for Migraine Sufferers The study – conducted by researchers from the National Institute on Aging, the National Institutes of Health, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – involved 182 frequent migraine sufferers experiencing 5 to 20 headaches a month. One group of participants received a diet with increased omega-3s (EPA and DHA in the amount of 1.5 grams a day), while a second group received a diet with increased omega-3s along with decreased amounts of linoleic acid (a common omega-6). By comparison, the control group was given a diet that featured a higher ratio of omega-6s to omega-3s. The results helped to confirm what natural health experts have long maintained about the power of proper nutrition to mitigate inflammation. An impressive finding is that the diet higher in omega-3s reduced total daily “headache hours” by up to 40 percent. And, when the diet was higher in omega-3s and lower in omega-6s, the number of “migraine days” in a month were decreased by four – also a significant improvement. In addition, the greatest decrease in severity and frequency occurred with the combination diet. Study leader Christopher Ramsden, MD, noted that this was the first moderate-sized controlled trial showing that targeted changes in the diet can decrease physical pain. The key to the dietary intervention’s success seems to revolve around oxylipins, natural fatty acid-derived compounds that influence pain and inflammation. While omega-3s help produce oxylipins that reduce inflammation and pain, omega-6s appear to create oxylipins that worsen pain and provoke migraines. Experts Concur on the Importance of Anti-Inflammatory Omega-3s Other noted headache experts are “on board” with the study’s findings and acting on them. For example, Rebecca Burch, MD, a physician with the Graham Headache Center at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, MA., declares, “(The study) results support recommending a high-omega-3 diet to patients in clinical practice.” For a better balance of polyunsaturated fats in your diet, seek to avoid processed seed and vegetable oils that are high in omega-6s (as well as the processed foods that contain them). Instead, olive, palm, and coconut oils – along with grass-fed butter – are a wiser choice. To boost beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, experts advise eating two servings of cold-water fatty fish – such as wild-caught salmon or sardines – a week. Pastured-raised eggs can also help provide omega-3s. Ramping up omega-3s while decreasing omega-6s is an intriguing natural intervention that shows promise in helping to manage painful headaches and bring much-needed relief to migraine sufferers. Sources for this article include: ScienceDaily.com Medscape.com CDC.gov CDC.gov To read the original article click here.

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This Ancient Practice Offers Natural Migraine Relief, NEW Study Reveals

AHA Publisher — Wed, 03 Mar 2021 08:00:45 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – For those who suffer from migraine headaches, the throbbing, pulsing pain – sometimes accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light – can seem unbearable. And the fact that attacks can last for hours and even days adds another layer of misery. Western medicine attempts to treat migraines with drugs such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, barbiturates, and opioids. But, the adverse effects of these medications can run the gamut from drowsiness and confusion to addiction, stomach ulcers, and liver damage. Sadly, only about half of migraine sufferers report relief from taking prescribed medications. But, there is some good news: a new study published in the official journal of the American Academy of Neurology reveals that yoga benefits migraines – and allows patients to take fewer drugs. Reduce the Severity and Frequency of Migraine Headaches by Adding This Practice to Your Treatment Plan The 2020 study published in Neurology involved 114 adult volunteers who experienced between four and 14 migraine headaches a month. Participants were randomly divided into two groups – one taking their regular migraine medications and one in which yoga was added to the regimen. The yoga consisted of an hour-long routine of breathing, relaxation techniques, and yoga postures. For the first month, the volunteers in the yoga group were supervised by an instructor three days a week. Over the next two months, they performed the yoga at home five days a week. Both groups received identical counseling regarding common-sense lifestyle techniques to manage migraines, including getting sufficient sleep, eating properly, and exercising regularly. After three months, the results were definitive: adding yoga offers natural migraine relief. Adding a yoga routine to a regimen of prescribed medications significantly reduced the severity and frequency of headaches. Impressive Study Results: Do This Regularly to Reduce Your Medication in Only Three Months The team reported that while patients in both groups experienced improvements in headache frequency, duration, and impact on daily life, the yoga group’s benefits were more pronounced. In fact, the yoga group ended up with an average of 4.7 migraine headaches a month – down from 9.1 – while the medication-only group cut their headaches by only 12 percent (a much more modest decrease). In addition, the yoga group was able to take less medication, with their average usage dropping by a hefty 47 percent by the end of the three-month study. Once again, the meds-only group didn’t fare as well. In fact, this group’s decrease in the number of pills taken was only 12 percent (again!) The lead author of the study – Rohit Bhatia, M.D., D.M., D.N.B. – pointed out a financial benefit of yoga as well. The yoga group did not need to purchase as much medication, thereby reducing the treatment costs – what Dr. Bhatia called a “game-changer” for those struggling to afford expensive prescription drugs. Yoga Offers Remarkable Benefits to People With Multiple Other Health Conditions Previous research has shown that yoga can help ease harmful psychological and physical conditions, such as chronic back pain, systemic inflammation, insomnia, and depressive rumination (unhelpful obsessing over real or imagined problems). A relatively recent study has highlighted the ability of yoga to reduce the symptoms of chronic concussion. Chronic concussion symptoms – which include headaches, fatigue, and depression – are sometimes described as the “invisible injury” in brain trauma incidents – and are notoriously difficult to treat. In the first-ever meta-analysis of research on the effects of yoga and mindfulness techniques on chronic concussion symptoms, the authors reported that these natural interventions could significantly cut fatigue and depression while improving cognitive performance and quality of life. The researchers, who called the results “remarkable,” reported that mind-body interventions for mild traumatic brain injury “consistently improved symptoms” in nearly every measured outcome – with no reported adverse effects. The team added that the approach – while not a miracle cure – is a valuable tool that can provide benefits over time. To conduct the review, which was published in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being, the investigators looked at 22 different studies involving a total of 539 participants. Ward Off Migraines With Natural Techniques and Powerful Nutrients Early interventions may help stop a migraine headache before it takes hold. At the first sign of a migraine – which can involve such diverse symptoms as sudden mood changes, food cravings, frequent yawning, and visual disturbances – experts advise seeking out a quiet, darkened place. Hot compresses applied to the head and neck can sometimes help deter an attack – as can heating pads and warm baths. (Alternately, some migraine sufferers report successfully warding off a migraine with ice-cold compresses). Avoid skipping meals, and steer clear of nicotine, alcohol, and processed foods laden with preservatives and sodium. It’s a good idea to keep a journal to discover what provokes migraines for you – remember: chocolate, aged cheeses, and wine are common culprits. And, getting sufficient exercise can help release serotonin and endorphins, neurochemicals that play a vital role in regulating pain perception. Other natural treatments for migraines include ginger root, valerian, and peppermint. Inhaling the scent of lavender through aromatherapy has also been shown to relieve migraines. Maybe it’s a good time for you and your integrative doctor to discuss the possibility of supplementing your migraine treatments with yoga. After all, it’s simple, accessible, non-invasive, and drug-free. And, in the words of Dr. Bhatia, “All you need is a mat.” Sources for this article include: ScienceDaily.com Wiley.com MayoClinic.org MayoClinic.org To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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Is There a Link Between Migraine and the Gut Microbiome?

AHA Publisher — Fri, 03 Jan 2020 08:00:39 +0000

Sally Robertson, B.Sc. via News-Medical – The human gut harbors about 2.2 pounds of microbes, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protists. The combined total of these microbes is referred to as the gut microbiome, changes in which have been linked to a number of neurological and psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. The intestine is in constant communication with the brain, and the gut microbiome is an important contributor in this. Two potential modes of communication have been proposed: The intestinal microbiome makes neurotransmitters that are sent to the brain via the blood Bacteria produce a variety of neurotransmitters, including serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline, as well as other molecules such as proinflammatory cytokines and fatty acids, all of which can access the bloodstream and get transported to the brain where they can influence brain function. The Vagus Nerve Plays a Role in Changing the Expression of Brain Receptors The second theory refers to a more direct mode of communication. The vagus nerve is the main nerve that connects the gut to the brain. One study showed that when certain types of bacteria are eliminated from the gut, the expression of certain receptors in the brain changed. However, when the vagus nerve was cut, the elimination of the bacteria did not change the expression of brain receptors. This finding indicates that the vagus nerve plays a role in carrying out the change. What Is Known About the Link Between Migraine and the Gut Microbiome? One 2016 study published in mSystems, a journal of the American Society for Microbiology, found that people who suffer from migraines have more bacteria, especially in the mouth, that can make a gas called nitric oxide, which is known to be a migraine trigger. Despite the finding only being a correlation, it offers a potential explanation for why some people are more susceptible to migraines than others and why certain foods seem to trigger migraines. First author Antoni Gonzalez from the University of California San Diego said the fact that there is a notion that certain foods such as chocolate and wine trigger migraines prompted the team to ask whether there is any association between the foods people eat, the microbiome and the migraines people experience. When bacteria in the mouth and intestine break nitrates down, the nitrates are eventually converted to the gas nitric oxide, which is known to dilate blood vessels, boost circulation and therefore improve the health of cardiovascular patients. However, in 80% of cases, when such patients take drugs that contain nitrates to relieve angina or to treat heart failure, they report migraine onset as a side effect. Consultant neurologist and trustee of the Migraine Trust, Brendan Davies, referred to the concept that the gut microbiome plays a role in migraine as medically plausible. He described a phenomenon called the “hot dog headache,” which is suspected to involve nitrates. For the current study, Gonzalez and colleagues used high-throughput RNA sequencing technologies to assess bacteria taken from 172 oral samples and 1,996 feces samples. The samples were taken from healthy participants who had reported whether or not they experience migraines. In both types of samples, the number of bacteria that process nitrates was slightly higher among people who suffered from migraines, compared with those who did not. Next, the researchers intend to study the effects of a controlled diet on migraine to test whether blood nitric oxide levels are associated with migraine attacks. The Largest Study to Examine the Effects of Probiotics on Migraine In a 2019 study published in the journal Cephalalgia, researchers described the largest ever trial of its kind examining the effects of probiotic supplementation on migraine. The study found that probiotics significantly reduced the frequency and intensity of migraines, a finding that represents a major step towards understanding the role the microbiome plays in migraine. Fifty participants suffering from chronic migraine or episodic migraine either received a placebo or a probiotic containing 14 strains of bacteria, including Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus and Bacillus subtilis. After taking the probiotic for 8 to 10 weeks, migraine attacks had significantly decreased among those who took the probiotic, compared with those who took a placebo. The frequency of attack fell by 45% among those with chronic migraine and by 40% among those with episodic migraine. For a reduction in migraine intensity, the corresponding figures were 31% and 29%. Headache specialist at the National Migraine Center, Katy Munroe, says there certainly seems to be a link between migraine and the functioning of the gut and the study finding suggests further research is needed. Medical Director at ADM Protexin Healthcare says the findings support exciting research developments in the microbiome-gut-brain axis, which has identified the fascinating potential of the gut bacteria in influencing neurological health and disease. He also thinks confirmatory studies are required. To read the original article click here. Sources Migraine and the Gut Microbiome. The University of Vermont Medical Center 2018. Adam Sprouse-Blum. Available at: medcenterblog.uvmhealth.org/…/ Knight, R et al. Migraines Are Correlated with Higher Levels of Nitrate-, Nitrite-, and Nitric Oxide-Reducing Oral Microbes in the American Gut Project Cohort. mSystems 2016. DOI: 10.1128/mSystems.00105-16. Available at: https://msystems.asm.org/content/1/5/e00105-16 Migraines could be caused by gut bacteria, study suggests. The Guardian 2016. Hannah Devlin. Available at: www.theguardian.com/…/migraines-could-be-caused-by-gut-bacteria-nitrates-food-trigger-study-suggests Jahromi, SR, et al. The effects of a multispecies probiotic supplement on inflammatory markers and episodic and chronic migraine characteristics: A randomized double-blind controlled trial.Cephalalgia 2019;39(7) https://doi.org/10.1177/0333102418820102 Available at: journals.sagepub.com/…/0333102418820102 Gut-brain axis: RCT shows gut-friendly probiotic improves migraine symptoms. Nutraingredients.com 2019. Nikki Cutler. Available at: www.nutraingredients.com/…/Gut-brain-axis-RCT-shows-gut-friendly-probiotic-improves-migraine-symptoms

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