Researchers have discovered several shared traits among migraine sufferers that seem to indicate a genetic link. They found five separate segments of the genetic code that may link those suffering from migraine headaches. Some of these genes were linked to brain circuitry and others were responsible for keeping brain tissues healthy. Understanding the genetic link between…
A key to understanding why migraines and head pain are so misunderstood is by realizing just how complicated our brains really are. Our human brains–the foundation of how we experience pain and memory–are vastly complex. Of course, realizing this in a theoretical way is much different than actually understanding it in a literal way. Thankfully, a collection of TED…
Headache pain is generally divided into four separate types: migraines, cluster-type headaches, tension-type headaches, and secondary headaches (as a result of another condition or as a side effect of treatment). Each of these can be severe enough to impact daily life, and each of them can benefit from a treatment called neuromodulation for head pain.…
Headaches and migraines are unfortunately common, but invisible to many. Over 42 million people in the U.S. suffer from headaches and migraines. During Migraine and Headache Awareness Month, the National Headache Foundations asks people to share their stories of suffering with head pain to show others that they aren’t alone. Why is Migraine and Headache Awareness…
Only one in five migraine sufferers experience the phenomenon known as an aura. What are these and what are their symptoms? What are migraine auras? Migraine auras typically occur right before the onset of migraine pain and usually last between five and 30 minutes. Often these auras begin with stranger, neurological experiences that include ringing…
According to Migraine.com, over 37 million adults in the United States suffer from migraine headaches. Two to three million of these cases are chronic. Because of the frequency of this condition, it is important for individuals prone to migraine pain to consider the possible migraine triggers for their pain. What are common migraine triggers? A…
A woman’s menstrual cycle can affect more than just monthly periods. During each phase of the month, the hormonal changes that a woman faces may trigger other things such as cramps or even headaches. Women’s hormones actually can affect headache fluctuations each month, leading to hormonal headaches. What are hormonal headaches? The hormones estrogen and…
Medical professionals and those who have suffered from the long-term pain of migraine headaches understand the repetitive and patterned nature of this condition. Using apps to track your migraines, triggers, and symptoms may be among the best tools a patient has to alleviate or eliminate migraine pain. Why would you need to track your migraines? …
Migraines can be crippling when they occur. While there is not much to celebrate about these debilitating headaches, many individuals suffering from them may have some warning that they will occur. Others may be able to determine specific environmental triggers that they can then avoid. Incorporate these tricks into your daily life to help you…
So many people rely on caffeine to make it through the day. Coffee, diet Coke, energy drinks, or anything else containing the stimulant are very popular in our fast-paced culture. While caffeine is naturally occurring, it does have some negative consequences for some people, especially those already dealing with chronic pain conditions. Here are some…